Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

Your SI joints connect the bottom of your spine (sacrum) to your pelvis. They don’t move much, but they carry a lot of weight between your upper body and legs. When these joints become irritated, inflamed, or move abnormally, it can cause SI joint dysfunction.

What it feels like:

·  Aching or sharp pain in the lower back, usually on one side

·  Pain that may spread into the buttock, hip, groin, or thigh

·  Worse with standing, walking, climbing stairs, or sitting too long

Why it happens:

·  Injury

·  Arthritis or wear-and-tear

·  Pregnancy (extra stress on the pelvis)

·  Uneven leg length

How it is diagnosed:

SI joint pain can mimic sciatica or a disc problem, so doctors may use a physical exam, imaging, and sometimes a special injection into the joint to confirm the source.

Treatment options:

·  Physical therapy and strengthening exercises

·  Anti-inflammatory medications

·  Injections or chiropractic adjustments

·  In severe cases, SI joint fusion surgery may help stabilize the joint and reduce pain