How to Relieve Sacrum Pain & Pressure

The sacrum and coccyx make up the lower region of the spine and are comprised of fused vertebrae. Connecting the sacrum with the pelvis, the sacroiliac joint functions as a shock absorber and transmits all upper body forces to the pelvis and legs. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction can cause lower back pain and pressure. Symptoms of sacroiliac dysfunction include pain in either the right or left of the lower back, pain that radiates into the buttocks and lower back, difficulty turning over in bed, stiffness in the lower back when getting out of bed in the morning or after driving long distances, and tenderness in the ligaments surrounding the joint. Pain is caused by too little movement (hypo-mobility) or too much movement (hyper-mobility) in the joint.

Things You'll Need

• Physician
• Chiropractor
• Physical therapist
• Anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or naproxen
• Aspirin or acetaminophen
• Sacroiliac back belt
• Exercise-based program

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Instructions

• 1

  Select an over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication such as aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen for temporary pain relief.

• 2

  Wear a sacroiliac back belt or another type of back brace as prescribed by your doctor.

• 3

  Consult a reputable chiropractor to discuss chiropractic manipulation as a treatment option.

• 4

  Consult your physician about beginning an exercise program such as yoga or Pilates.

• 5

  Consult a physical therapist to consider treatment options such as heat, ice, massage, ultrasound and electrical stimulation.

• 6

  Schedule an appointment with your physician to discuss other treatment options. Your doctor can determine whether you require sacroiliac joint injections, oral or injected steroids, or narcotic pain medications.