Sacroiliac Joint Pain

Sacroiliac joint pain becomes more common with age, especially if you have arthritis or a history of hip trauma. At Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute, the board-certified neurologists offer comprehensive care for people with persistent hip or lower back pain that’s difficult to manage with over-the-counter medicine. They can minimize pain and restore sacroiliac joint function with nonsurgical therapies. Call the Bethlehem, Braselton, or Lilburn, Georgia, office today to schedule an evaluation for sacroiliac joint pain. You can also use the online feature to book an appointment online.

What causes sacroiliac joint pain?

The sacroiliac (SI) joints are where the ilium (hip bones) attach to the right and left side of the sacrum, the bone at the center of the lower back that sits between your tailbone and spine.

The main function of these joints is to support your upper body’s weight when you walk or stand. These joints also distribute the weight load through your hips and into your legs.

Injuries to one or both of the SI joints can cause pain. You may also be at increased risk for chronic sacroiliac joint pain if you play contact sports or have:

• Scoliosis
• An uneven gait
• Osteoarthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis

Pain can be exacerbated by repetitive movements, intense workouts, and poor posture.

Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute offers nonsurgical treatments to ease chronic pain in the SI joints. The board-certified neurologists design a care plan to achieve long-term pain relief and prevent additional complications. 

When should I seek medical attention for sacroiliac joint pain?

Schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute if you have persistent pelvic pain that radiates into your lower back, buttocks, and legs. Pain may affect one or both sides of your body.

You should also meet with the neurology specialists if you have:

• Hip stiffness
• Hip or lower back instability
• Hip or pelvic pain that gets worse with activity
• Pain in the hips, pelvis, or lower back with extended periods of standing or sitting

The providers complete a physical exam. X-rays, and other diagnostic imaging tests are available in the office to assess SI joint health. 

How is sacroiliac joint pain treated?

Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute offers several nonsurgical treatments to manage sacroiliac joint pain.  Your initial care plan may include:

• Ice or heat therapy
• Oral anti-inflammatories
• Oral pain relievers
• Muscle relaxers
• Cortisone injections

Physical therapy and joint exercises are also beneficial for strengthening the muscles that support your hips and lower back. 

When pain isn’t manageable with nonsurgical treatments, you may be a candidate for radiofrequency ablation, a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to destroy nerves near the SI joints. 

Call Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute today to schedule a consultation for chronic sacroiliac joint pain or book an appointment online.