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Sacroiliac Joint Injections

Sacroiliac Joint Injections: Targeted Relief for Lower Back and Pelvic Pain

What Are Sacroiliac Joint Injections?

Sacroiliac (SI) joint injections are a minimally invasive treatment designed to diagnose and alleviate pain in the sacroiliac joints, which connect the lower spine to the pelvis. These injections deliver a combination of corticosteroids and anesthetics directly into the affected joint to reduce inflammation and block pain signals.

SI joint injections serve two purposes:

  1. Diagnosis: To determine if the sacroiliac joint is the source of pain.
  2. Treatment: To provide relief from pain caused by inflammation or dysfunction in the joint.

How Do Sacroiliac Joint Injections Work?

The procedure involves precise placement of medication into the SI joint to target the source of pain. Here’s how it works:

  1. Imaging guidance: Using fluoroscopy (a live X-ray) or ultrasound, your healthcare provider locates the sacroiliac joint.
  2. Injection: A small amount of anesthetic and corticosteroid medication is injected into the joint.
  3. Immediate relief: If the pain is significantly reduced, it confirms the SI joint as the pain source.
  4. Inflammation reduction: The corticosteroid works over time to reduce swelling and inflammation, providing longer-lasting relief.

What Conditions Can Sacroiliac Joint Injections Treat?

SI joint injections are commonly used to treat pain caused by:

  • Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
  • Arthritis in the SI joint
  • Inflammation from ankylosing spondylitis or other conditions
  • Trauma or injury to the pelvis or lower back
  • Pregnancy-related pelvic instability

If you experience persistent lower back or pelvic pain, this treatment may help pinpoint the source and provide effective relief.

What Are the Benefits of Sacroiliac Joint Injections?

SI joint injections offer several advantages for managing pain:

  • Minimally invasive: No surgery or extensive recovery time required.
  • Dual purpose: Diagnoses the source of pain and provides treatment.
  • Targeted relief: Delivers medication directly to the affected joint.
  • Quick procedure: Typically completed in less than 30 minutes.
  • Improved mobility: Reduces pain, allowing for greater participation in physical therapy or daily activities.

Are Sacroiliac Joint Injections Safe?

Yes, SI joint injections are generally safe and well-tolerated when performed by trained professionals. Minor side effects, such as temporary soreness or bruising at the injection site, are common and usually resolve quickly. Serious complications, such as infection or nerve damage, are rare.

What Should You Expect During and After the Procedure?

The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and follows these steps:

  1. Preparation: You’ll lie on your stomach or side, and the treatment area will be sterilized.
  2. Local anesthetic: A numbing agent is applied to minimize discomfort during the injection.
  3. Guided injection: Using imaging guidance, your provider will insert a small needle into the SI joint and deliver the medication.
  4. Monitoring: You’ll be observed for a short time after the injection before being discharged.

After the procedure, you may experience temporary numbness or soreness at the injection site. Most patients can resume light activities the same day, but strenuous activities should be avoided for 24 to 48 hours. Pain relief may begin immediately from the anesthetic, with longer-lasting effects from the corticosteroid appearing within a few days.

Who Is a Candidate for SI Joint Injections?

SI joint injections are ideal for individuals who:

  • Have chronic lower back or pelvic pain suspected to originate from the sacroiliac joint.
  • Have not found relief with other conservative treatments, such as physical therapy or medications.
  • Need confirmation of the SI joint as the source of their pain.

Your healthcare provider will evaluate your condition and medical history to determine if this treatment is appropriate for you.

Find Relief from Persistent Pain

Chronic lower back or pelvic pain can significantly impact your quality of life. Sacroiliac joint injections offer a safe and effective way to diagnose and treat this discomfort, helping you move more freely and comfortably. Speak with your healthcare provider today to learn how this procedure can help you regain control and improve your well-being.