Sacroiliac Joint Pain Indiana
Understanding Sacroiliac Joint Pain
The sacroiliac joint, or SI joint, connects the pelvic bone to the sacrum and plays a crucial role in stabilizing your body by acting as a shock absorber. This joint helps transfer weight from your upper body to your hips and legs. However, SI joint dysfunction can lead to chronic pain, making simple movements like walking, standing, or sitting for extended periods difficult.
Many people experiencing sacroiliac joint dysfunction struggle to identify the source of their pain due to its similarities with other conditions like spinal disc herniation or hip issues. Common causes of sacroiliac joint dysfunction include:
· Hypermobility: An over-flexible joint can lead to instability, causing inflammation and pain.
· Hypomobility: A restricted or stiff SI joint can result in limited mobility and discomfort.
Symptoms of SI joint pain often include discomfort in the lower back, hips, buttocks, and legs. The pain may worsen with certain activities like sitting or standing for long periods, climbing stairs, or even lying on one side.
Diagnostic and Treatment Options
Determining the source of sacroiliac pain is essential to developing an effective treatment plan. At APAC Center for Pain Management, we offer diagnostic techniques like sacroiliac joint injections to pinpoint the root cause of your pain.
Sacroiliac joint injections involve injecting a numbing medication into the joint under X-ray guidance to confirm if the SI joint is the source of pain. If the injection provides relief, it indicates that the joint is the primary pain source. Additionally, these injections can
include corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation and provide both immediate and long-lasting pain relief.
What to Expect from SI Joint Injections
Sacroiliac joint injections are outpatient procedures performed under x-ray guidance to ensure precise placement of the medication. During the procedure, a local anesthetic is injected to numb the area, followed by a contrast dye to confirm accurate needle placement. The medication is then delivered into the joint to provide immediate relief.
After the injection, most patients notice significant improvement within a few days. The effects of the injection can last anywhere from several weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the joint dysfunction. For ongoing relief, repeat injections can be performed as needed.
In addition to injections, our specialists may recommend physical therapy to address the underlying causes of joint dysfunction and improve overall joint stability. Strengthening the muscles around the SI joint can help prevent future flare-ups and reduce the risk of chronic pain.
The Benefits of SI Joint Pain Treatment
The goal of treating sacroiliac joint dysfunction is to provide long-term pain relief and improve your overall quality of life. By addressing the root cause of pain and utilizing interventional pain management techniques, we aim to:
· Reduce inflammation in the SI joint.
· Improve mobility and flexibility.
· Minimize the need for pain medication or invasive surgery.
· Help patients return to their daily activities without discomfort
Conclusion
Sacroiliac joint pain can be challenging to manage, but with the right treatment, you can find relief. At APAC Center for Pain Management, we specialize in providing advanced, minimally invasive treatments for SI joint dysfunction. Whether you’re experiencing chronic lower back pain, hip pain, or leg pain, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve lasting pain relief and improved function.
For patients, we offer comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options, including sacroiliac joint injections and other interventional pain management techniques. If you’re struggling with sacroiliac joint pain in Indiana, contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward effective pain relief.
FAQs about Sacroiliac Joint Pain Relief
What are the common symptoms of sacroiliac joint pain?
Common symptoms include lower back pain, hip pain, and discomfort in the buttocks and legs. The pain may worsen with certain movements, such as sitting for long periods or climbing stairs.
How do I know if I am a candidate for these treatments?
If you suffer from chronic lower back, hip, or leg pain and suspect it might be related to the sacroiliac joint, consulting with a pain management specialist at APAC is the first step. Our team will review your medical history, conduct a thorough examination, and discuss your symptoms to determine if you are a suitable candidate for our treatment options.
Can sacroiliac joint dysfunction lead to chronic pain?
If left untreated, sacroiliac joint dysfunction can lead to chronic pain and impact daily activities, which is why timely intervention and treatment are crucial.
How is sacroiliac joint pain diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, review of medical history, and diagnostic procedures such as sacroiliac joint injections to confirm if the joint is the source of pain.
How effective are sacroiliac joint injections for pain relief?
Sacroiliac joint injections can provide immediate pain relief and may last for several weeks to months, depending on the individual’s condition and response to treatment.
