SI Joint Dysfunction: The Hidden Cause of Your Lower Back Pain

If you struggle with persistent lower back pain, you might assume a herniated disc or sciatica is to blame. However, the real culprit could be your sacroiliac (SI) joint. 

At Steven J. Svabek, DO, PA, our board-certified orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Svabek, specializes in diagnosing and treating this often-overlooked condition. From our office in Coral Springs, Florida, we help patients find lasting relief from SI joint dysfunction to regain their mobility.

The SI joints connect your spine to your pelvis and act as shock absorbers. When these joints become too stiff or too loose, they can cause severe discomfort. Research shows the SI joint is the primary pain generator in 15%-30% of all chronic lower back pain cases.

What’s SI joint dysfunction and how does it mimic other back pain?

SI joint dysfunction is a mechanical issue that occurs when the sacroiliac joint becomes inflamed, hypermobile (too loose), or hypomobile (too stiff). 

This condition frequently mimics sciatica because the joint sits next to the sciatic nerve pathway. This proximity causes referred pain to shoot down into your buttocks and upper thigh.

However, a key difference helps us tell SI joint dysfunction and sciatica apart. While sciatica or a herniated disc typically sends sharp, electric pain down past your knee and into your calf, SI joint pain almost always stops above the knee.

Recognizing this specific pain pattern is crucial to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary spinal surgeries.

How do we diagnose and treat SI joint dysfunction?

We diagnose SI joint dysfunction through targeted physical tests rather than standard imaging. Standard MRIs and CT scans often look completely normal even when you're in severe pain. 

To get an accurate diagnosis, Dr. Svabek uses a series of physical movement tests and can confirm the source of your pain using an image-guided diagnostic injection.

Once we confirm the diagnosis, we start with conservative treatments, such as specialized physical therapy to stabilize your pelvis.

If conservative care doesn't provide enough relief, we offer advanced options. These include radiofrequency ablation to block pain signals or minimally invasive spine surgery options, such as SI joint fusion to stabilize the joint permanently. 

You don't have to live with chronic discomfort or guess what's causing your pain. We can help you find the answers and create a personalized treatment plan. If you're ready to reclaim your active lifestyle, schedule a consultation with our team by phone or online today.