The sacroiliac joint (SI joint) is located in the pelvis and connects the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) to the ilium (the large, wing-shaped bone of the pelvis). The joint is responsible for transmitting forces between the upper body and the lower body, allowing for stability and shock absorption during activities such as walking, running, and lifting.
Sacrioliliac joint dysfunction or sacroiliitis refers to inflammation or irritation of the sacroiliac joint. It can cause pain and discomfort in the lower back, buttocks, and sometimes down the leg. Some common causes and conditions related to the sacroiliac joint include:
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction:
This is a broad term used to describe any condition that disrupts the normal functioning of the sacroiliac joint. It can be caused by various factors, including trauma, degenerative changes, pregnancy, infection, or inflammatory conditions.
Sacroiliitis:
Sacroiliitis refers specifically to inflammation of the sacroiliac joint, often caused by conditions such as spondyloarthropathies (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis), psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, or infection. It can result in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the lower back and buttocks.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction in Pregnancy:
Hormonal changes and increased stress on the pelvis during pregnancy can lead to sacroiliac joint dysfunction, causing pain and discomfort in the lower back, hips, and buttocks.
Sacroiliac Joint Fusion:
In cases where conservative treatments for sacroiliac joint dysfunction fail to provide relief, sacroiliac joint fusion surgery may be considered. This procedure involves fusing the sacrum and ilium together, eliminating the movement of the joint and alleviating pain.
Diagnosing sacroiliac joint dysfunction or sacroiliitis involves a comprehensive evaluation, including a medical history review, physical examination, and imaging studies (such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scan) to assess the joint and surrounding structures. At Alabama Bone and Joint Clinic our spine specialist will guide you through your treatment options. Call today to schedule an appointment with our expert in spine care, Winston Capel, M.D. is board certified in neurosurgery and fellowship trained in spinal surgery.
My visit to AL Bone and Joint Clinic was s pleasant visit , wait time was minimal the staff were friendly and knowledgeable. The Dr explained my injury so I could understand . They made me feel comfortable and taken care of.
