What is Sacroiliitis and Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction?

Sacroiliitis refers to inflammation in one or both of the sacroiliac joints (SI joints), which are located at the base of the spine where the sacrum meets the pelvis. This condition can cause significant pain in the lower back, buttocks, and hips. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction occurs when these joints fail to function properly, leading to pain and discomfort. Common causes of sacroiliitis and sacroiliac joint dysfunction include:

  • Injury or trauma to the lower back
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Pregnancy-related changes in pelvic alignment
  • Inflammatory conditions like ankylosing spondylitis

If left untreated, sacroiliitis and sacroiliac joint dysfunction can lead to chronic pain, affecting your ability to perform daily activities and decreasing your quality of life.

How Sacroiliac Joint Injections Help

Sacroiliac joint injections are a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat pain caused by sacroiliitis and sacroiliac joint dysfunction. The injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication and/or numbing agents directly into the affected SI joint, helping to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. Benefits of Sacroiliac Joint Injections:

Pain Relief

The injection targets the inflammation and pain in the SI joint, providing significant relief.

Diagnoses the Source of Pain

If you're unsure if your pain is caused by the SI joint, the injection can help determine if the SI joint is the source of your discomfort.

Improves Mobility

By reducing pain and inflammation, SI joint injections can help you regain mobility, allowing you to return to your daily activities.

Minimally Invasive

The procedure is performed using a small needle, minimizing recovery time and discomfort.

Joint injection

The Sacroiliac Joint Injection Procedure

The sacroiliac joint injection procedure typically takes around 30 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis. Here's what you can expect during the procedure:

  1. Preparation: You will be positioned comfortably, and a local anesthetic will be applied to the skin to minimize discomfort.
  2. Fluoroscopy Guidance: The injection is guided by fluoroscopy (a type of real-time X-ray), ensuring the medication is accurately delivered into the sacroiliac joint.
  3. Injection: The doctor will inject a combination of a corticosteroid (anti-inflammatory) and a numbing agent into the joint. The medication will work to reduce inflammation and provide immediate pain relief.
  4. Post-Procedure: After the injection, you will be monitored for a short period before being sent home. You may feel some relief almost immediately, though the full effects of the medication can take a few days to fully kick in.

Recovery After Sacroiliac Joint Injections

After the procedure, you may experience some soreness at the injection site, but this typically resolves within a few days. Many patients find significant pain relief within a few days to a week, allowing them to resume normal activities.

If the injection proves effective, it may also allow you to participate in physical therapy or other treatments to strengthen the muscles surrounding the SI joint and prevent further issues.

For long-term relief, some patients may need additional injections or combine the treatment with other therapies like physical therapy or lifestyle adjustments. In some cases, if conservative treatments fail, other options like sacroiliac joint fusion surgery may be considered.

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Why Choose Gerling Spine Care NY for Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction Therapy in NYC?

At Gerling Spine Care NY, we offer expert care for patients suffering from sacroiliac joint dysfunction and sacroiliitis. Our team, led by Dr. Michael Gerling and Dr. Zorica Buser, is dedicated to providing advanced, minimally invasive treatments designed to help you manage pain and restore function. With a patient-centered approach and state-of-the-art techniques, we ensure that every treatment plan is tailored to meet your specific needs.

Whether you're seeking relief from lower back pain, sacroiliitis treatment, or sacroiliac pain treatment in NYC, our specialists are here to help guide you toward a pain-free and active life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about sacroiliac joint injections and how they can help you find lasting relief.

Contact Gerling Spine Care NY Today

If you're struggling with sacroiliac joint pain and seeking effective treatment in NYC, Gerling Spine Care NY is here to help. Our experienced team offers personalized care to address your unique needs and help you regain your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and explore the benefits of sacroiliac joint dysfunction therapy in NYC!

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Gerling Spinecare & Research Institute consists of NY Orthopedics & Gerling Institute NJ. Two practices, one standard of excellence.

We're here to help you move forward.

Relief starts with quality orthopedic care. Contact us today to take the next step toward a more active, pain-free life.

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