SI Joint Pain

SI joint pain can vary significantly between patients, but common symptoms include:

• Lower back pain on one or both sides, typically below the waistline
• Buttock and hip pain that may radiate down the thigh
• Groin pain and discomfort in the pelvis
• Pain that worsens when sitting, standing from seated position, or climbing stairs
• Stiffness in the lower back and hips, especially in the morning
• Instability or feeling like your pelvis might give way
• Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet
• Difficulty sleeping due to pain when lying on the affected side

Many patients describe the pain as sharp, stabbing, or burning, and it often increases with certain movements or positions.

SI joint pain can result from various factors that affect joint stability and function:

Common causes include: pregnancy-related hormonal changes that loosen ligaments, arthritis affecting the joint, previous lower back surgery, traumatic injuries from falls or accidents, and leg length differences that create uneven stress on the pelvis.

Risk factors that increase your likelihood of developing SI joint pain include being female (especially during and after pregnancy), having inflammatory conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, participating in high-impact sports, having a previous spinal fusion surgery, and age-related wear and tear on the joint structures. Repetitive stress from activities like running or prolonged sitting can also contribute to SI joint dysfunction.

Accurate diagnosis of SI joint pain requires a comprehensive evaluation by our specialists. At Synergy Health Partners, we use a combination of approaches to confirm SI joint dysfunction and rule out other conditions.

Your evaluation typically includes a detailed medical history, physical examination with specific provocative tests (like the FABER test and Gaenslen’s test), and advanced imaging studies. MRI scans can reveal inflammation and structural changes, while X-rays help identify arthritis or other bony abnormalities.

In some cases, we may perform a diagnostic SI joint injection using image guidance. If this injection provides significant temporary pain relief, it confirms the SI joint as the source of your symptoms and helps guide our treatment recommendations.

You should seek medical attention if you experience persistent lower back or buttock pain that doesn’t improve with rest and over-the-counter medications. Schedule an appointment promptly if your pain interferes with daily activities, sleep, or work productivity.

Seek immediate medical care if you experience severe pain following a fall or injury, sudden onset of severe pain with fever, loss of bowel or bladder control, or significant weakness or numbness in your legs. These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition requiring urgent evaluation.

Early diagnosis and treatment of SI joint pain can prevent the condition from becoming chronic and help you avoid unnecessary limitations on your activities.