Sacroiliac Joint Pain
The sacroiliac joint (also known as the SI joint) is where the hip bones connect to the sacrum, which is the triangular bone between the lower spine and the tailbone. The sacroiliac joint is mostly responsible for absorbing shock between the upper body and the pelvis and legs.
If something causes the SI joint to move or function in an abnormal way, it often results in pain. This pain is commonly referred to as sacroiliac joint dysfunction or instability. Along with causing pain in the hips and buttocks, SI joint issues are also a common cause of low back pain.
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What causes sacroiliac joint pain?
- Hypermobility – Too much movement (hypermobility) of the SI joint, often resulting from injury, trauma, or pregancy.
- Hypomobility – Too little movement (hypomobility) of the SI joint, often resulting from joint stiffness caused by arthritis or degenerative joint disease.
- Inflammation – Factors such as arthritis, injury, or infection can cause painful inflammation in the SI joint.
- Biomechanical issues – Muscle imbalances, leg length discrepancies, poor posture, or uneven walking gait can put added pressure on one side of the body.
SI joint pain is most common in women, particularly those of middle age or who are pregnant or have recently given birth. It is also more likely to develop in people who regularly engage in activities that place extra stress on the joint, such as contact sports or labor-intensive jobs.
What are the symptoms of sacroiliac joint pain?
The most common symptoms of SI joint pain include:
- Dull, achy pain in the lower back, usually on one side
- Hot, sharp, stabbing pain in the buttocks or backs of the thighs
- Stiffness and limited range of motion in the lower back, hips, pelvis, and groin
- Feeling of instability in the pelvis, as if it may give way when standing or walking
How is sacroiliac joint pain treated?
In many cases, SI joint pain can be treated with at-home remedies, such as ice and/or heat, rest, over-the-counter medications, or bracing.
If you are diagnosed with SI joint dysfunction that can’t be managed with at-home remedies, Twin Cities Pain Clinic offers a variety of effective treatments that can help provide sustained relief:
Schedule an appointment with Twin Cities Pain Clinic to learn how we can help relieve your sacroiliac joint pain.
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