There are many causes for low back pain that are treated here at Legacy. One common condition that can often be overlooked originates at the sacroiliac (SI) joints. They are located where the ilium of the pelvis meets the sacrum—the left and right sides of the sacrum. Strong ligaments and muscles hold the SI joints in place and allow only a few millimeters of movement
when the body bears weight or flexes forward. Arthritic and certain age-related degenerative disorders may gradually erode protective joint cartilage, which can subsequently lead to instability and pain that can mimic some of the symptoms of lumbar pathologies.
How Do You Know If You Have an SI Joint Dysfunction?
Pain is a primary symptom of a SI joint problem. Some patients experience difficulty sitting, standing, walking, bending, and lifting. The pain and symptoms may mimic other types of lumbar spine (lower back) disorders.
Possible areas where pain may be felt:
- Lower back
- Hips
- Buttocks
- Groin
- Thighs and legs (usually stops at the knee)
SI Joint Pain Treatments
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Medication to relax muscle spasms
- Ice and/or heat
- Sacroiliac joint brace
- Physical therapy (to reduce pain and strengthen SI musculature)
- Corticosteroid joint injections
Sources:
https://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/sacroiliac-joint-pain/sacroiliac-joint-animation
https://www.medindia.net/patients/patientinfo/sacroiliac-joint-dysfunction.htm