Could Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction be the Cause of your Low Back Pain?
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is not as widely known as other causes of back problems, but it can cause mild to severe pain for those who suffer from it. This article will explain some of the basic information you should know about this condition.
The sacroiliac joint connects the sacrum, which is the bone at the bottom of the spine, to the pelvis, which is the iliac bone that is part of the hip joint, on either side of the spine. It is responsible for transmitting the forces of the upper body to the pelvis and legs. Since there is not a lot of motion in this joint, it is usually strong and stable.
The reasons for sacroiliac joint dysfunction are not entirely clear, but it is believed to result from a limitation in its normal motion patterns or misalignment of the joint. Sacroiliac joint (SI joint) pain can result in pain on one side of the very low part of the back as well as in the buttocks. SI joint pain is also called sacroiliitis because of the inflammation that occurs in the joint.
SI joint problems cause low back pain, as well as the following symptoms:
- Pain in the thigh or buttock, and possibly pain that radiates down the sciatic nerve
- More commonly experienced on one side of the body, but may occur on both sides
- More commonly found in young or middle-age women
SI joint pain is most commonly treated non-surgically and focuses on reducing inflammation and pain, as well as restoring normal motion in the joint. Treatment options can include:
- Physical therapy and exercise
- Pain medications (such as acetaminophen or muscle relaxants) and anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen)
- Using a pelvic belt to provide stability
- Osteopathic or chiropractic manual manipulation of the sacroiliac joint
- Injections to the sacroiliac joint
Rarely, a patient may require surgery if he or she experiences severe or chronic pain originating in the sacroiliac joint. If you would like to discuss your low back pain to determine whether sacroiliitis may be contributing to your discomfort, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Sharma today.
