Sacroiliac Joint Injury/Dysfunction

The sacroiliac joints (SIJs), located between the sacrum and ilium bones of the pelvis, play a vital role in transferring forces between the upper body and lower limbs. These joints provide essential stability and shock absorption, enabling efficient movement and load distribution. Though they allow only limited motion, their function is supported by robust ligaments and surrounding musculature. Despite its robust nature, these joints can still get injured and/or sore!

SIJ dysfunction can arise from a variety of causes, including:

• Traumatic events (e.g., falls, motor vehicle accidents)
• Repetitive stress (e.g., heavy lifting, prolonged standing)
• Degenerative changes associated with aging
• Inflammatory conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis
• Pregnancy-related changes, especially in pre- and post-natal individuals

The underlying pathophysiology involves abnormal forces or motion across the joint, which can lead to pain and impaired function. Importantly, this condition is highly responsive to targeted intervention, especially when addressed early.

Patients typically report signs and symptoms like localized pain in the buttock, sometimes radiating to the lower back, hip, or groin. They will note pain worsened by weight-bearing activities (e.g., sitting, standing, stair climbing, running), and potentially stiffness and reduced range of motion in the lower back and hips. These symptoms, while uncomfortable, are not permanent and can be significantly improved with appropriate care.

Because SIJ dysfunction shares symptoms with other conditions, accurate diagnosis is essential. Differential diagnoses include:

• Lumbar disc herniation
• Hip joint pathology
• Piriformis syndrome
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Myofascial pain syndrome

A thorough clinical assessment ensures that treatment is precisely tailored to the individual’s needs.

• Physiotherapy offers a highly effective, non-invasive approach to managing SIJ dysfunction. Treatment strategies include:
• Manual Therapy: Pain relief can be gained through hands on therapy techniques to the lumbar spine, pelvis, and hips. This is a great way to get more comfortable quickly, and then your trusty OHL Physio can progress you into the exercise approach and next level of care.
• Exert Exercise Therapy and Rehabilitation strategy: Strengthening the core, gluteal, and hip muscles will enhance stability and support around this entire region and allow patient to progress through a loading plan.
• Pain Management Modalities: Both the use of heat and ice can reduce pain and inflammation in the acute phase, and more comfort in later rehab phases.

With consistent physiotherapy, many individuals experience substantial relief and a return to full function, often within weeks. If you think you are suffering from this condition, please reach out to our Physio team via 9431 5955 and/or you can book a Physio consult online via Client Portal.