The SI joints play a crucial role as shock absorbers between the upper and lower body. They connect the sacrum (the lowest part of the spine) to the pelvis and are typically stable and strong.
SI joint dysfunction leads to pain in the back, hips, and butt that’s difficult to relieve.
If you have back pain, ruling out SI joint dysfunction is critical in treatment. At his practice in Coral Springs, Florida, Dr. Steven J. Svabek offers diagnostic testing, conservative care, and surgical treatments for back pain.
Dr. Svabek is an experienced orthopedic surgeon who provides the cutting-edge iFuse Implant System® by SI Bone® to treat severe SI joint issues.
SI joint dysfunction, or sacroiliitis, is a painful condition that occurs when the SI joints move too much or too little. These joints are crucial for pelvic stabilization and for shock absorption between the upper body and the legs.
This condition often affects only one side of the joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. Traumatic injuries, arthritis, and repetitive strain on the joints are common causes of the damage that leads to chronic inflammation.
Many people experience relief from sacroiliitis with conservative measures, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, and medications. Steroid injections and surgery may be necessary in severe cases.
SI joint pain is tough to self-diagnose because it often appears as back pain, which has many causes. However, several symptoms may point toward SI joint dysfunction, including:
SI joint dysfunction typically presents with activity-specific pain, such as when running or climbing stairs. Anything that causes an uneven walking pattern can also cause pain.
It can be difficult to sleep on the side of a damaged SI joint, which causes discomfort and aching that only improves when you shift to the other side.
Pain from the SI joints may worsen when you change positions, for example, going from standing to sitting or lying down to standing.
Another subtle symptom of SI joint dysfunction is stiffness in the lower back or hips, especially when you wake up. The stiffness usually improves with light activity.
SI joint pain is usually felt on one side of the spine, and most people can pinpoint the area right above the tailbone.
Seek expert care with Dr. Svabek if you suspect SI joint pain, and it interferes with your routine or is severe enough to cause you to miss work or lose sleep.
Also, see us for pain that worsens, or if you develop neurological symptoms such as numbness or tingling in the legs or buttocks.
At your appointment, Dr. Svabek evaluates your symptoms and orders imaging studies. He develops a treatment plan specific to your symptoms, needs, and goals.
If you’re frustrated by back pain, including SI joint dysfunction, take the first step toward relief today. Call the office of Steven J. Svabek, DO, PA, or request an appointment online.
