Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) syndrome is a significant source of pain in 15% to 30% of low back pain sufferers.
The general population commonly confuses these symptoms with sciatica, when in fact they are suffering pain originating from the tissues around the sacroiliac joint. This is why it’s so important to have a thorough assessment by a qualified Physiotherapist to differentiate between all the possible origins of the pain and then develop a program of rehabilitation that is specific and effective.
Where Is The Sacroiliac Joint?
Your sacroiliac joint is formed between the sacrum and iliac bones of the pelvis and sits at the base of your spine.
Pain from SIJ syndrome is caused by an increased load on an inflamed sacroiliac joint that is under stress due to compensation (such as in pregnancy) or due to decreased or increased mobility of the joint. Pain can also occur with weight-bearing, transitions from a seated to standing position, or when rolling in bed. Sufferers find that they experience more pain in the morning and better when on the move during the day, but it often gets worse again in the evening.
What Are The Most Common Symptoms?
The most common symptoms include:
– Low back pain
– Buttock pain
– Thigh pain
– Difficulty sitting in one place for too long due to pain
– Local tenderness of the posterior aspect of the pelvis
– Pain with activities involving standing on one leg, such as walking up stairs. The treatment of SIJ syndrome involves initially reducing the joint and tissue inflammation with soft tissue techniques and mobilisation that realigns the joint. Often accessories such as the Pelvic belt, sacroiliac support belts and footwear inserts, can help to maintain this realignment after treatment. Compression garments can also be used to relieve pain during pregnancy.
For long term correction of these problems, it is essential to undertake a Physiotherapist prescribed training program that focuses on pelvic floor and core stability muscle retraining so that we have strong muscles supporting the pelvis.
To find out more about these techniques and how Physiotherapy can help you with low back pain, make a booking at your nearest practice.
This blog was written by Neha Kamat, from the Aberfoyle Park practice.