The sacroiliac joint dysfunction is referred to the condition that causes pain in the sacroiliac joints. The Sacroiliac Joints (SI) are what connect the spine to the pelvis. These joints support the weight of the upper body when the person is erect, which places a lot of stress on these joints leading to wear and tear of the SI joints cartilage. In some cases, it also leads to arthritis.

Causes of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

One of the main reasons for this condition is the wearing off of the cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the bones. This causes the bones to rub against each other and thus leads to degenerative arthritis, which is one of the main causes of sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Pregnancy is also another condition that causes SI dysfunction due to the changed weight and walking pattern that puts a lot of extra stress on the joints. Several other conditions such as an injury to the leg, pain in the hip or anywhere in the entire leg which changes the normal walking pattern also increases the stress on the SI joints leading to the dysfunction. Several other disorders including gout, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, which are various forms of arthritis also lead to stiffness and extreme pain in the SI joints.

Symptoms of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

Pain especially in the groin, thighs, hips, or lower back is the most common symptom of this dysfunction. This pain is especially unbearable while standing or walking. Patients could also experience burning sensation in the pelvis.

Diagnosis of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

The diagnosis of sacroiliac joint dysfunction is an elaborate process. It involves in-depth research into the patient’s medical history followed by physical examination. It is very important that the doctor diagnoses the exact reason for the dysfunction; hence, he would have to ask the patient several questions pertaining to the deduction. There are several tests involved as well. Tests such as applying pressure when the legs and hips are in a particular position also help determine the dysfunction. X-rays of the pelvis may also be a part of the diagnosis. Some doctors also resort to CAT scans or MRI scans. In certain cases, an anesthetic injection might be used to determine the cause of the pain.

Treatments for SI Joint Dysfunction

Common treatments are usually a combination of medical prescriptions, injection, and physical therapy. Injections with cortisone and lidocaine can offer some pain relief from this condition, however we always reccommend you seek natural treatments first. At times, doctors also prescribe anti inflammatory drugs for pain relief. In addition to this, physical therapy and certain specific exercise can be very helpful in improving this condition. For example, there are several stabilizing exercises (watch the video above), which can help reduce the pain. Yoga and Pilates are also advised. For most people it will require a combination of treatments to get full relief from this pain.