The
sacroiliac joint is the large, boomerang shaped joint that is found in the
pelvis between the ilium and the sacrum (see picture). The joint does not have any nerves
passing through it, but does have nerves from five spinal levels (L4, L5, S1, S2,
and S3) going to it. Sacroiliac
problems usually result from poor lifting, prolonged activities that overstress
the joint, or from injury due to falls. These conditions are extremely common, and injury to the sacroiliac joint
is the most common condition treated at Nasa Chiropractic.
Symptoms of sacroiliac (SI) joint injury or dysfunction:
- Pain in the low back to the right or left of center that may feel sharp and knifelike
- Pain aggravated by changes of position from sitting to standing or from rolling over in bed
- Pain that may be reduced with walking
- Pain that may worsen with sitting
A patient with a sacroiliac joint injury may also experience sciatic-like pain that radiates to the buttock, hip, posterior thigh, calf, or even the foot, mimicking a lumbar disc herniation. The pain results from overstressing of the ligaments of the joint or from a sprain of the ligaments (microtears of the actual fibers of the ligaments) that comprise the joint.
Exam findings may include:
- Limited and painful lumbar ranges of motion
- Pain during orthopedic tests
- Increased tenderness over the injured joint
- Muscle spasms in the low back greater on the side of the injury
- Painful gluteal muscles
- Unequal apparent leg length due to distortion of the pelvis secondary to injury
Our doctors will work with you on the best treatment plan to improve motion and reduce pain.