Causes, treatment, and prevention
Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain is a common but often overlooked source of lower back and pelvic discomfort. At Acomb Chiropractic Clinic, we provide you with clear, comprehensive information that not only explains the possible causes and treatments of SI joint pain but also guides you to effective strategies aiming to prevent it. Our goal is to empower you to take charge of your spinal health and enjoy a better quality of life
What Is sacroiliac joint pain?
The sacroiliac joints are located on either side of the spine, connecting the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) to the pelvis. These joints play a crucial role in absorbing shock and maintaining stability during movement. When the SI joints become inflamed or dysfunctional, they can cause pain in the lower back, hips, buttocks, and even the legs. This condition, known as sacroiliac joint dysfunction, can affect mobility and significantly impact daily activities.
SI joint pain typically presents as one sided lower back pain, sometimes radiating into the buttock. The pain can be acute and sudden, but it can also be a chronic long-lived problem. Often the pain may even move from one side to another as the pelvis tries to compensate.
Common causes of SI joint pain
SI joint pain can arise from a variety of factors, including:
- Injury or trauma: Falls, accidents, or sports injuries can damage the SI joint, leading to inflammation and discomfort.
- Pregnancy and childbirth: Hormonal changes and increased stress on the pelvis during pregnancy can loosen the ligaments supporting the SI joint, leading to instability.
- Arthritis: Conditions such as osteoarthritis or ankylosing spondylitis can cause inflammation and degeneration in the SI joint.
- Postural imbalances: Uneven weight distribution, prolonged sitting, or improper posture can place excessive strain on the SI joint.
- Leg length discrepancy: A slight difference in leg length could alter gait mechanics, resulting in SI joint stress over time.
Recognising these risk factors can help individuals take proactive steps to prevent or manage SI joint pain effectively.
Symptoms of sacroiliac joint dysfunction
Patients experiencing SI joint pain often report:
- Lower back and buttock pain that may radiate into the thighs
- Stiffness or reduced mobility in the lower back and hips
- Pain that worsens with prolonged standing, sitting, or certain movements
- Instability in the pelvis or difficulty walking comfortably
Because SI joint pain can mimic other conditions such as sciatica or lumbar disc issues, an accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
How chiropractic care can help
Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach, aiming to manage SI joint pain and restore proper function. Our treatment strategies may include:
- Spinal and SI joint manipulations - Precise chiropractic manipulations or adjustments aim to restore normal function and mobility in the SI joint, reducing pain and inflammation. By improving joint flexibility and positioning, patients often experience enhanced stability and comfort.
- Drop technique - This is a technique where we use a function of our specialised treatment benches to apply a stretching force into the spine or pelvis. It is a technique often used by chiropractors particularly for treating SI joint dysfunction, and aims to reduce SI joint restriction.
- Soft tissue therapy - Manual therapy techniques, including vibration massage and trigger point technique, help relieve muscle tension around the SI joint. This reduces discomfort and promotes healing.
- Corrective exercises - Strengthening and stabilising exercises tailored to the patient's needs could improve pelvic alignment and aim to prevent future SI joint dysfunction. Core and gluteal muscle activation play a key role in supporting the SI joint.
- Postural and lifestyle guidance - Identifying postural habits that contribute to SI joint strain is essential. We provide personalised ergonomic recommendations to help patients maintain proper spinal alignment during daily activities.
Preventing SI joint pain
Taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of SI joint dysfunction. Here are a few strategies to keep your spine and pelvis healthy:
- Maintain strong core and hip muscles to provide stability
- Avoid prolonged sitting or standing—incorporate movement into your routine
- Practice proper lifting techniques to minimise strain on the lower back and pelvis
- Wear supportive footwear to promote even weight distribution
- Seek chiropractic care for regular spinal maintenance
By adopting these habits, individuals can protect their SI joints and minimise discomfort over time.
Get in touch
At Acomb Chiropractic Clinic, we are committed to helping you if we can. If you suspect that your discomfort may be related to SI joint issues, or if you are experiencing persistent lower back pain, we encourage you to contact us for a personalised consultation. Our experienced chiropractic team will conduct a thorough assessment, explain our findings and what we think is possible in clear terms. If appropriate, we will develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and goals, aiming to maximise your possible benefit.
Not all complaints are appropriate for chiropractic care: If we think we cannot help your complaint, or you require more investigations, we will do our best to support you in finding you another path forward.
Contact us today to book a consultation