Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
What is Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction?
Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction refers to pain and inflammation in the sacroiliac joints, which connect the lower spine to the pelvis. This condition can cause lower back and buttock pain, sometimes radiating down the legs, mimicking sciatica.
Mechanism of Injury:
SI Joint Dysfunction often results from uneven movement or stress on the sacroiliac joints. Causes include trauma (e.g., a fall or car accident), pregnancy, leg length discrepancy, or degenerative arthritis. Repetitive movements, poor posture, or heavy lifting can also contribute to the dysfunction.
Symptoms
-
Lower Back Pain: Localised pain on one or both sides of the lower back.
-
Buttock Pain: Pain that may extend into the buttocks and sometimes down the leg.
-
Stiffness: Difficulty moving or rotating the hips.
-
Pain with Movement: Increased discomfort when standing up from a seated position, walking, or climbing stairs.
Treatment
Clinic Treatment:
-
Assessment: To evaluate the mobility and alignment of the SI joints.
-
Dry Needling: Targeted at the muscles around the SI joint to release tension and reduce pain.
-
Ultrasound Therapy: Applied to the SI joint area to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
-
Massage: Focused on the lower back, glutes, and hips to relieve muscle tension and improve joint function.
-
Hot Stones: Used to relax tight muscles around the SI joints and ease discomfort.
-
Cupping: Applied to the lower back and hip area to enhance circulation and reduce muscle tightness.
-
Reassessment: To monitor pain levels and joint mobility improvement.
-
Rehabilitation Plan: Includes specific exercises to strengthen the core and stabilise the pelvis, stretching routines to improve flexibility, and postural training to reduce stress on the SI joints.