About Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

 The symptoms of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction, a degenerative condition of the sacroiliac joint, include: 

• Pain and stiffness in the buttocks or lower back

• Pain that might radiate down one or both legs

• Pain made worse by standing or sitting for a long time, climbing stairs, or bending forward

• Pain that is relieved by lying down

• Pain that is worse after prolonged sitting on one side

• Pain during sexual intercourse, menstruation, or ovulation in women

• Pain just inferior to the posterior superior iliac spine made worse with hip flexion, abduction, and external rotation.

 Here are some possible causes of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction:

• Injury to the ligaments that hold the joint in place

• Repetitive motions and sports that subject the ligaments to more force than they are able to handle over time

• Degenerative changes in the sacroiliac joint

• Pregnancy, due to increased stress on the sacroiliac joint and surrounding ligaments

• Inflammatory arthritis, such as ankylosing spondylitis or psoriatic arthritis

• Infection of the sacroiliac joint

• Leg length discrepancy or pelvic asymmetry.

 Below are the treatments for Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction:

• Treatment for Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction is usually conservative, with the goal of reducing pain and inflammation and improving mobility

• Pain management can involve medications such as NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, and opioid pain relievers. However, opioids are not typically recommended for long-term use.

• Physical therapy can help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected area.

• Injections of local anesthetic and/or corticosteroids can be used to reduce pain and inflammation. Image-guided injections are the most accurate way to diagnose sacroiliac joint pain.

• Surgery may be recommended for patients with progressive symptoms who fail nonoperative management. However, surgery is usually reserved for those who have significant joint damage, and the benefits and risks of surgery should be carefully considered.

It’s important to note that treatment for Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual patient’s needs. A healthcare professional can provide a more personalized treatment plan.