Causes of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

There are a few known factors that can lead to pain in the back, specifically in the sacroiliac joint. Some of them include:

• Injury in an accident or trauma which can displace the SI joint and lead to immense pain.
• Poor proprioception adds excess pressure onto the SI joint and ligaments, which can lead to overloading of the joint.
• Sudden forceful exertion on the SI joint, typical of high-intensity contact sports like football and rugby, increases the risk of SI blockage.

Chronic pain in the sacroiliac joint is more commonly associated with:

• Long term wear and tear of the SI joint, also called arthrosis, leading to weakening of the joint and surrounding ligaments.
• Loosening of the symphysis during pregnancy, leading to instability of the pelvic girdle and increased risk of developing pain in the SI joint.
• Infections and associated inherent pre-existing conditions, like rheumatic diseases, can make certain patients more susceptible to symptoms.
• Broken bones or herniated discs can result in weakening of the muscles, which increases the chances of degeneration of the SI joint.

Diagnosis of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

A complete patient history and physical examination provides critical information. A medical professional can conduct typical tests to detect stress in the sacroiliac joint and also indicate the possible involvement of the sciatic nerve.

A blood test may be conducted if ankylosing spondylitis, which is a type of spinal inflammatory arthritis, is suspected. Sophisticated imaging technology, such as X-rays and CT scans, can detect possible herniated discs, vertebral fractures or spinal dislocations. These can also be instrumental in studying the long term progression of the condition.

SI Joint Dysfunction Treatment

Treatment typically involves relieving the pain and inflammation, and managing the symptoms of the disease. The ultimate goal is to curb the progression of the disease and prevent long term wear and tear of the SI joint.

• Rehabilitation And Physiotherapy

  • Regulated physiotherapy helps with targeted muscle training and is a proven effective treatment path.
  • The prescribed exercises can help promote the reorganisation of the muscles and are the most effective option to slow the progression of the disease.
  • Encouraging healthy proprioception and strengthening of the lower back muscles helps prevent long term degeneration and manage the pain.
  

• Prescribed Painkillers

  • Painkillers, such as Ibuprofen or Panadol, can be used to alleviate pain and discomfort in patients.
  • In cases of inflammation, a professional may prescribe the patient with anti-inflammatory medication.
  • In advanced patients, localised cortisone injections may be necessary to prevent excess pressure build-up due to the inflammation.
  • Importantly, painkillers only temporarily treat the pain without addressing the underlying condition. In addition, tolerance may occur where the effectiveness of the drugs decrease as well as other potential side effects.

• Heat And Infrared Application

  Used regularly, heat and infrared therapy on the lower back can aid treatment and provide relief. Heat is often applied to relieve the pain in the sciatica.

• I Blockage Therapy

  Doctors or physiotherapists will often use one of two methods to relieve SI blockages in the spine.

  • Mobilisation – Carefully stretching the joint to improve mobility.
  • Manipulation – Releasing the blockage briefly by exerting force on the affected joint.

• Medical Back Braces

  It is highly recommended that ample support to the SI joint is provided through the use of a medical back brace. The targeted compression, that braces provide, boosts circulation and reduces the possibility of effusions and edema.

  Wearing a Bauerfeind brace, like the SacroLoc, can be instrumental in treatment, by providing enhanced stability, proprioception and medical-grade compression. This is not found in simple neoprene braces and has proven to be more effective.