Living with lower back pain is difficult. For many, sacroiliac (SI) joint pain is a daunting condition that turns simple movements into painful endeavors. According to research, between 10 and 27 percent of mechanical lower back pain is due to SI joint pain.
Fortunately, there are effective non-surgical treatments available. Among these, injections for SI joint pain offer a promising solution. This article explores sacroiliac joint pain and how injections for SI joint pain treatment can help.
Understanding SI Joint Pain
The sacroiliac joint, commonly referred to as the SI joint, is located at the base of your spine. It connects the sacrum—a triangular bone at the bottom of your spine—to the ilium of the pelvis. Despite its small size, the SI joint plays a crucial role in stabilizing your body and supporting your movements.
Pain in the SI joint can arise from various causes, such as injury, arthritis, or pregnancy. Symptoms typically include lower back pain, pain in the buttocks, and discomfort when standing or walking. Diagnosing SI joint pain often involves a thorough physical examination and imaging tests to rule out other potential sources of pain.
What Causes SI Joint Pain
SI joint pain is often triggered by inflammation or dysfunction in the joint. Injury or trauma, such as a fall or car accident, can disrupt the normal movement of the SI joint. It can eventually lead to chronic lower back pain. Conditions like arthritis can also wear down the joint’s cartilage, resulting in pain and stiffness.
Common symptoms of SI joint pain include a dull or sharp ache in the lower back, radiating pain in the hips or legs, and difficulty sitting or standing for extended periods. These symptoms can greatly affect daily activities, making it essential to seek SI joint pain treatment.
Injections for SI Joint Pain Treatment
Sacroiliac joint injections are a non-surgical method used to treat SI joint pain. The procedure involves injecting a combination of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication directly into the SI joint. Here is a step-by-step of how a doctor for SI joint pain administers the treatment:
- Preparation: You will lie on your stomach on an X-ray table, and the injection site is thoroughly cleansed with antiseptic soap and alcohol. Sterile drapes will be placed over the area to maintain cleanliness.
- Local Anesthesia: The skin around the injection site will be numbed with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
- Needle Insertion: Using X-ray guidance, the doctor will carefully advance a needle into the sacroiliac joint to ensure proper placement.
- Injection: A combination of numbing medicine and a steroid will be injected into the SI joint to help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Needle Removal: After the injection, the needle is removed, and the injection site is cleaned.
- Bandage Application: A bandage will be placed over the injection site.
- Monitoring: You will be monitored for 20-30 minutes to ensure no immediate reactions. Afterwards, you can resume normal activities.
Patients may experience immediate pain relief from the anesthetic, while the anti-inflammatory effects develop over time.
Benefits and Risks of SI Injections
SI joint injections offer several benefits for individuals seeking relief from chronic pain. They provide targeted pain relief, allowing for improved mobility and quality of life. Additionally, these injections are minimally invasive compared to surgical options, making them a safer choice for many patients.
However, like any medical procedure, SI joint injections come with potential risks and side effects. Some patients may experience temporary discomfort at the injection site or mild bruising. It is important to discuss these risks with a qualified doctor for SI joint pain who can evaluate your specific condition and provide personalized guidance.
Important Considerations and Next Steps
Before deciding on SI joint injections, several factors should be considered. Accurate diagnosis is crucial, as misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective treatment. Consult with a doctor for lower back pain near you, particularly an orthopedic spine specialist. This ensures you receive the best treatment for sacroiliac pain.
In addition to injections, other treatment options may be explored. Physical therapy, chiropractic care, and lifestyle modifications are often recommended to complement SI joint injections and promote long-term relief. Engaging in open discussions with your orthopedic spine doctor helps with a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs.
SI joint injections present a valuable non-surgical option for managing chronic pain. By addressing inflammation and discomfort directly at the source, these injections offer hope for those struggling with SI joint pain. Remember, seeking professional advice is essential to determine the best treatment for sacroiliac pain.
Top Spine Doctor for SI Joint Pain Treatment in Rochester Hills, Bad Axe, and Royal Oak, Michigan
Dr. Bradley Ahlgren is a top orthopedic spine doctor at Ahlgren Spine. Dr. Ahlgren will physically examine you to determine if SI joint injections are the best treatment for sacroiliac pain. We offer a variety of minimally invasive treatment options for lower back pain in a relaxing environment.
In our offices, we offer comprehensive treatment tailored to each patient’s specific needs. To find out what Dr. Ahlgren will recommend for your back pain, call us today at (248) 215-8080. You can also use our convenient request form to schedule a consultation.
