What Are the Treatments for SI Joint Pain?

The sacroiliac (SI) joint is where the sacrum (the large, flat bone at the base of your spine) connects to the hip bones. SI joint pain can be the result of many different underlying conditions, and the proper treatments must be determined accordingly.

Common Causes

• The more common causes of SI joint pain include twisting, bending or heavy lifting that stresses the joint, a fall or other trauma to the area (such as an auto accident), muscle imbalance around your pelvis, different length legs, poor posture, or loose ligaments in the joint. Arthritis can also cause SI pain.

Ice

• For SI pain caused by an injury or overstress, the University of Michigan Health System recommends using ice packs on the area for 20 to 30 minutes every four to six hours for the first two to three days. After three days, you can use moist heat to help relax the area.

Common Treatments

• Other treatments include anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants, exercises to improve mobility and strength, massage to your low back and sacroiliac joint, physical therapy, and mobilization of the joint by a physical therapist, chiropractor, or physician trained in manipulative medicine.

Additional Treatments

• If your legs are different lengths and contribute to the pain, shoe inserts may be appropriate. Sometimes doctors recommend a sacroiliac belt to help support the joint or a cortisone shot into the joint to reduce pain and swelling.

Considerations

• Infection is a possible cause of SI joint pain and is usually treated with antibiotics. Stress fractures, which are most likely in athletes, can also cause SI pain. Consult a health care professional for a proper diagnosis.