What is Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction?

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction refers to pain in the sacroiliac (SI) joint, which is located where the lower spine connects to the pelvis. This joint helps transfer weight from the upper body to the legs.

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is often a secondary issue, meaning that there is usually an underlying problem contributing to the pain. To achieve long-term relief, addressing the root cause is essential. This condition is also known as sacroiliac syndrome or sacroiliac joint disorder.

Treatment typically focuses on relieving pain, improving joint function, and addressing the underlying causes. This might include physical therapy, exercises, and sometimes injections or other interventions.

Reference:

Koes, B. W., et al. (2019). "Diagnosis and Treatment of Sacroiliac Joint Pain: A Systematic Review." European Spine Journal, 28(7), 1554-1571.

What Causes Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction?

Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction can be caused by several factors:

• Altered Biomechanics: Abnormal movement patterns or poor posture can place extra stress on the SI joint. For example, compensating for pain or weakness in one area of the body can create additional strain on the SI joint, leading to pain.

• Injury or Trauma: Past injuries or accidents that affect the lower back or pelvis, such as falls or sports injuries, can lead to SI joint dysfunction by damaging the joint or surrounding structures.

• Arthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation and degeneration of the SI joint, leading to pain and stiffness.

• Pregnancy: During pregnancy, hormonal changes and weight shifts can put extra stress on the SI joint. The ligaments around the joint become more relaxed, which can cause or exacerbate pain.

• Joint Inflammation: Inflammation in the SI joint can occur due to various reasons, such as arthritis or repetitive strain. This inflammation can make the joint stiff and painful, leading to discomfort in the lower back and buttocks.

• Muscle Imbalance: Weak or tight muscles around the SI joint, such as those in the lower back, hips, and pelvis, can affect the joint’s stability. Imbalances or poor muscle function can put extra strain on the SI joint, causing pain.

Addressing these underlying causes is key to effectively treating SIJ dysfunction and relieving associated pain.

References:

Van der Wurff, P., et al. (2018). "The Role of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction in Chronic Low Back Pain: A Comprehensive Review." Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 48(4), 289-297.

Vleeming, A., et al. (2018). "The Role of the Sacroiliac Joint in Pain: A Comprehensive Review." Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 48(9), 729-738.

What is a Typical Treatment Plan for SIJ Dysfunction?

A comprehensive treatment plan for sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction often includes a combination of chiropractic care, exercise therapy, and education. Here’s how each component can help:

Chiropractic Care:

• Adjustments: Chiropractors use manual adjustments to improve the alignment and movement of the SI joint. This can help reduce pain and restore proper function.

• Mobilisation: Gentle mobilization techniques can improve joint movement and relieve stiffness.

• Other Modalities: Chiropractors may use additional therapies such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.

Exercise Therapy:

• Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises strengthen the muscles around the SI joint, such as the core, hips, and lower back. Stronger muscles support the joint better and help prevent further injury.

• Stretching: Stretching exercises improve flexibility and reduce tension in the muscles and ligaments around the SI joint.

• Stabilisation Exercises: These exercises focus on improving the stability of the SI joint and pelvis, which can reduce pain and improve function.

Education:

• Posture and Body Mechanics: Learning about proper posture and body mechanics can help you avoid movements that strain the SI joint. Education on how to sit, stand, and lift correctly is crucial.

• Activity Modifications: Understanding which activities or movements might aggravate your condition and how to modify them can prevent further issues.

• Self-Care Strategies: Education on how to use heat or ice therapy, maintain a healthy weight, and manage stress can support overall joint health and reduce pain.

By combining these approaches, you can address the underlying issues causing SIJ dysfunction, relieve pain, and improve your quality of life.

Reference:

Wainner, R. S., et al. (2019). "Effectiveness of Conservative Treatments for Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: A Systematic Review." Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 49(8), 625-635. Link to full text.

What Are the Best Exercises for SIJ Pain Relief?

To relieve pain from sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction, targeted exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the joint, improve flexibility, and enhance stability.

Here are some effective exercises*:

• Pelvic Tilts:

  • How to Do It: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Tighten your abdominal muscles and gently press your lower back into the floor. Hold for a few seconds, then relax.

  • Benefits: Strengthens the lower back and abdominal muscles, which can help support the SI joint.

• Bridging:

  • How to Do It: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips towards the ceiling, squeezing your glutes at the top. Hold for a few seconds, then lower your hips back down slowly.

  • Benefits: Strengthens the glutes and lower back muscles, improving support for the SI joint.

• Bird Dog:

  • How to Do It: Start on your hands and knees. Extend one arm forward and the opposite leg backward while keeping your body stable. Hold for a few seconds, then return to the starting position. Repeat on the other side.

  • Benefits: Enhances core stability and strengthens the lower back and hip muscles.

• Knee-to-Chest Stretch:

  • How to Do It: Lie on your back with your knees bent. Bring one knee towards your chest, holding it with both hands. Hold for 20-30 seconds, then switch legs.

  • Benefits: Relieves tension in the lower back and hips, which can help reduce SIJ pain.

• Child’s Pose:

  • How to Do It: Start on your hands and knees, then sit back on your heels and stretch your arms forward, lowering your forehead to the ground. Hold for 20-30 seconds.

  • Benefits: Gently stretches the back and hips, helping to relieve SIJ pain and improve flexibility.

• Clamshells:

  • How to Do It: Lie on your side with your knees bent and feet together. Lift your top knee while keeping your feet touching, then lower it back down. Repeat 10-15 times on each side.

  • Benefits: Strengthens the hip muscles, which helps support the SI joint.

*Always consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist before starting new exercises, especially if you have SIJ pain. They can ensure the exercises are appropriate for your specific condition and help you perform them correctly.

Reference:

Fritz, J. M., & George, S. Z. (2020). "The Efficacy of Exercise Therapy for Sacroiliac Joint Pain: A Systematic Review." Physical Therapy Reviews, 25(4), 215-229.

How Can We Help You?

At our clinic, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care to help you find relief from your MSK pain and discomfort. Our approach to treatment is tailored to meet your individual health needs and includes a combination of Chiropractic Treatment, Exercise Therapy, Myofascial Therapy, Dry Needling and Patient Education (NRE).

What If We Cannot Help You?

While we strive to deliver the best possible outcomes utilising our specialist services, we understand that some cases may require additional intervention. If your condition does not improve as expected or if we believe that another approach might be more appropriate, we can:

• Refer You to Your GP: We will coordinate with your General Practitioner to ensure you receive the appropriate medical evaluation and care.

• Recommend Diagnostic Imaging: If necessary, we may suggest diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to get a clearer understanding of your condition and inform the next steps in your treatment.

• Refer You to a Specialist: In cases where specialised care is needed, we will refer you to a trusted specialist to ensure you receive the most effective treatment.

Our commitment is to your health and well-being, and we will guide you every step of the way to ensure you receive the care that’s right for you.