Causes of SI Joint Pain:
- Previous lumbar fusion
- Fall, misstep or awkward twisting or lifting
- Uneven pelvis or legs, resulting in one leg being shorter than the other
- Past pregnancy
- Forms of arthritis such as degenerative sacroiliitis
SI Joint Pain Symptoms:
- Dull ache in the low back that feels like sciatica
- Pain that radiates to the groin or thigh
- Inability to sit or lie on the afflicted side
- Increased pain when climbing stairs or hills
If you notice that you have these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your physician. They will be able to perform some simple tests to determine if the pain you are experiencing is from the SI joint. If the pain is not resolved with several months of conservative care, an SI joint fusion may be recommended.
When is it time for surgery?
Your physician will more than likely suggest you undergo several months of conservative treatment including chiropractic treatments, physical therapy, SI joint injections or anti-inflammatory injections. If after six months the pain has not lessened even after SI joint injections, your physician may suggest a spinal fusion.
Considering an SI Joint fusion?
An SI joint fusion is a minimally invasive procedure, where the sacrum and the pelvis are joined. Laser Spine Institute surgeons will perform the procedure through a small incision with the guidance of a fluoroscope. Because there is typically limited mobility in the SI joint without the procedure, most patients will not lose any range of motion.
