Sacroiliac Joint Pain/ Sacroilitis

Sacroiliac joint pain, also known as Sacroilitis or sacroiliac joint dysfunction, is a common arthritis-like condition causing pain in the lower back, buttocks, groin, and legs. Your sacroiliac joints (we call them the “SI” joints) are the places where your hips meet your spine. These joints don’t have a lot of flexibility, but they do move slightly as you move your body. And if SI joints become damaged or diseased, it can be painful. Your healthcare provider will work with you to diagnose and treat your sacroiliac joint pain.

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If you suffer from sacroiliac joint pain and would like additional information on this painful condition, please review the video and frequently asked questions below. If you are interested in or scheduled for a sacroiliac joint injection for your sacroiliac joint pain and would like additional information on this interventional procedure please refer to our article on sacroiliac joint injections. Additionally, if you have questions or concerns do not hesitate to discuss them with your physician.

Sacroiliac Joint Pain FAQ

What is sacroiliac joint pain?

The sacroiliac joints are located at the bottom of the spine on both the left and right sides where your hip bones (ilium) are attached to the sacrum. Due to normal aging, when the sacroiliac joints become inflamed or injured this may lead to sacroiliac joint dysfunction characterized by pain in the lower back, buttocks, groin, and legs. Sacroiliac joint pain is often seen as a result of traumatic injury, arthritis, and pregnancy.

How is sacroiliac joint pain diagnosed?

To determine whether you are suffering from sacroiliac joint pain or from another condition, your provider will start with a comprehensive medical review and physical exam. Diagnostic tests that include x-rays, lab results, and/or MRIs will also be reviewed.

How is sacroiliac joint pain treated?

Sacroiliac joint pain may be treated in many ways including non-opioid adjuvant medications, sacroiliac joint injections, radiofrequency ablation, and complementary therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic care, and physical therapy. Sacroiliac joint pain may be treated as part of a care team model involving pain psychology, pain management, and primary care specialties working together.

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