Sacroiliac joint pain

The sacroiliac joint sits at the back of the pelvis and connects the pelvis to the lower spine (sacrum). This joint does not allow for significant amounts of mobility but is however in use regularly throughout our normal day whether we are walking, standing from sitting or climbing stairs for example and this is perhaps the reason that problems arise so frequently with this joint.

What causes a Sacroiliac joint pain?

Sacroiliac joint pain is usually a result of an abnormality of the mechanics of the joint placing abnormal amounts of pressure on the muscle, ligaments and soft tissues that surround the joint.

Causes of pain in this joint may include; repeated stress on the joint such as during running for example; direct trauma such as a heavy fall; childbirth; leg length discrepancy; laxity of ligaments during pregnancy due to hormonal changes to name but a few.

Although less common, inflammatory conditions such as Ankylosing Spondylitis can also cause sacroiliac joint pain.

What are the symptoms of Sacroiliac joint pain?

Symptoms may include one or more of the following:

Dull pain/ache at the base of the spine
Increased pain on bending, lifting or turning over in bed
Occasionally pain is referred to the groin, buttock and back of the thigh

Physiotherapy treatment for Sacroiliac joint pain

Pain in the sacroliliac joint is often a result of either too much or too little movement and this is why early physiotherapy assessment and treatment can be of huge benefit. Our specialist physiotherapists will aim to determine the cause of your pain following thorough assessment and develop a structured treatment program specific to your individual needs.

Physiotherapy treatment may include: