Introduction

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction (SIJD) is a common cause of lower back and pelvic pain, but it is often misunderstood or misdiagnosed. As a spinal surgeon, I see many patients with SIJD and have found that understanding the condition is the first step towards effective treatment. In this blog, I'll explain what SIJD is, how it's diagnosed, and the treatments available to help you feel better.

 

What is Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction?

The sacroiliac joints connect the spine to the pelvis, helping to stabilise the body. If these joints become irritated or misaligned, it can cause pain in the lower back, buttocks, or even down the legs. This condition is called sacroiliac joint dysfunction (SIJD). Often, SIJD is mistaken for other issues like sciatica or hip problems, which can make it difficult to diagnose.

 

How is SIJD Diagnosed?

Diagnosing SIJD involves a combination of tests and looking closely at your symptoms. In my clinic, I use three key tests:

Fortin Finger Test: You point to the area where you feel the pain, usually near the sacroiliac joint.
Compression Test: I apply gentle pressure to your pelvis to see if it triggers the pain.
FABER Test: This test involves moving your leg in a way that puts stress on the sacroiliac joint to reproduce the pain.

If these tests suggest SIJD, I may recommend a diagnostic injection into the joint. If this relieves your pain, it confirms the joint as the source of your discomfort.

 

What Are the Symptoms of SIJD?

Common symptoms of SIJD include:

  • Pain in the lower back, buttocks, or legs
  • Difficulty sitting for long periods
  • Pain when moving, such as climbing stairs or standing up from a seated position
  • Stiffness or a feeling of reduced flexibility in the lower back

Non-Surgical Treatments for SIJD

The good news is that many patients with SIJD don't need surgery. Non-surgical treatments are effective and typically the first step:

  • Physiotherapy: Exercises that strengthen the muscles around the sacroiliac joint can improve stability and reduce pain.
  • Manual Therapy: Techniques like joint mobilisation or manipulation help improve movement and reduce discomfort.
  • Injections: Corticosteroid injections or radiofrequency ablation can help reduce inflammation and provide longer-term pain relief.

These treatments often work well together, and many patients find that their symptoms improve significantly without needing surgery.

 

When is Surgery Needed?

For some patients, non-surgical treatments aren't enough. In these cases, I may suggest minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion. This procedure involves placing small titanium implants into the joint to stabilise it, reducing pain and improving function.

Benefits: Patients who undergo this minimally invasive procedure usually experience significant pain relief, better mobility, and a quicker recovery than traditional open surgeries.

 

 

Conclusion

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is a common cause of lower back pain, but there are effective treatments available. Most patients benefit from non-surgical treatments like physiotherapy and injections. For those who need it, minimally invasive surgery is a safe and effective option.

If you're experiencing lower back or pelvic pain and think it may be related to your sacroiliac joint, I'm here to help. Please feel free to schedule a consultation, and together we can find the best way to manage your pain and get you back to feeling your best.