Sacroiliac Pain Injections

Diagnosing sacroiliac joint pain

Diagnosing sacroiliac joint pain involves a comprehensive approach, including medical history, physical examinations, imaging tests, and diagnostic injections. During a physical exam, a clinician may apply pressure on the hips and buttocks to identify pain points and assess symptom patterns and lifestyle factors.

Imaging tests, such as X-rays and MRIs, can reveal signs of damage to the sacroiliac joint or identify other conditions that may be causing pain. A diagnostic SI joint injection, which involves injecting numbing medication into the sacroiliac joint, can help confirm whether the SI joint is the source of pain. If the pain subsides after the injection, it indicates that the SI joint is indeed the problem area.

Accurately identifying sacroiliac joint pain through the diagnostic process is vital for determining the most effective treatment plan. A precise diagnosis ensures that patients receive appropriate care and interventions to manage their condition and enhance their quality of life.

Treatment options for sacroiliac joint pain

There are several treatment options available for managing sacroiliac joint pain, ranging from non-invasive methods to surgical interventions. Common treatments include pain medication, physical therapy, and sacroiliac joint injections. Each option offers unique benefits and can be tailored to the individual’s specific needs and pain levels.

Pain medication

Pain medication is fundamental in managing sacroiliac joint pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, are commonly used to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. These medications help relieve pain and improve mobility for individuals suffering from acute or chronic sacroiliac joint pain.

Muscle relaxants are also recommended for managing muscle spasms associated with sacroiliac joint pain. Corticosteroid injections may sometimes be used to reduce inflammation and provide longer-lasting pain relief. Combining these medications can help patients manage their pain levels effectively and improve their quality of life.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy, often the first line of treatment for sacroiliac joint pain, focuses on strengthening the muscles that support the SI joints. Stabilization exercises and manual therapy techniques are commonly used to improve joint function and reduce pain.

Regular exercise and proper lifting techniques help prevent further injury and manage chronic pain. Low-impact exercises recommended by physical therapists can maintain a healthy weight and reduce stress on the SI joints.

A comprehensive physical therapy program can significantly improve mobility and alleviate sacroiliac joint pain.

Sacroiliac joint injections

Sacroiliac joint injections are a minimally invasive procedure that can provide both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits for individuals suffering from SI joint dysfunction. These injections involve administering a mixture of local anaesthetic and/or corticosteroid medication directly into the sacroiliac joint fusion surgery to reduce inflammation and pain.

These injections serve a diagnostic purpose by confirming whether the SI joint is the source of lower back pain. Pain relief from the injection indicates that the SI joint is indeed causing the discomfort. Follow-up care usually includes a review appointment and communication with the patient’s GP to discuss the outcomes and any further treatment needed.

Sacroiliac joint injections work by diminishing pain signals originating from the SI joint, providing significant pain relief for many patients.

The procedure begins with the patient lying face down on a table. The healthcare provider may administer a mild sedative or local anaesthesia to minimise discomfort. Using fluoroscopy (X-ray guidance) or ultrasound imaging, the physician identifies the precise location of the sacroiliac joint and cleanses the area to maintain sterility.

A small needle is then inserted into the joint under imaging guidance. The provider may inject a small amount of contrast dye to ensure proper needle placement. Once confirmed, the physician administers the therapeutic solution, typically a mixture of a local anaesthetic for immediate pain relief and a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation. The entire procedure usually takes 15-30 minutes, and the patient is monitored briefly afterward to ensure no immediate complications.

Post-procedure, patients are usually observed for a short period to monitor for adverse reactions, such as allergic responses or temporary numbness in the legs. Many people experience immediate relief due to the anaesthetic component of the injection, though this is temporary and may wear off within a few hours. The corticosteroid component may take a few days to reduce inflammation and achieve more sustained pain relief.

Patients are typically advised to avoid strenuous activities for 24-48 hours but can resume normal activities gradually. Some soreness at the injection site is common and can be managed with ice packs or over-the-counter pain relievers. Follow-up with the healthcare provider is often scheduled to evaluate the procedure’s effectiveness and discuss further treatment options if necessary. For some, the relief is long-lasting, while others may require additional injections or complementary therapies such as physical therapy or chiropractic care.