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Understanding SI Joint Pain

The sacroiliac (SI) joint, located at the base of the spine where the sacrum meets the ilium (the pelvic bone), plays a vital role in stabilizing the pelvis and supporting the weight of the upper body. When the SI joint becomes inflamed due to injury, arthritis, or degenerative conditions, it can cause significant pain in the lower back, hips, and legs. This condition, known as SI joint dysfunction, often leads to chronic pain and discomfort that can impair movement and quality of life.

SI Joint Injections are an effective treatment option for alleviating pain and inflammation caused by SI joint dysfunction. These injections provide targeted relief by delivering a combination of anesthetic and corticosteroid directly to the affected joint, reducing pain and inflammation while improving mobility.

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When Are SI Joint Injections Recommended?

SI Joint Injections are typically recommended for patients who experience chronic pain that originates from the sacroiliac joint but have not found relief with other conservative treatments such as physical therapy, pain medication, or chiropractic care. Conditions that may lead to SI joint dysfunction include:

  • Osteoarthritis: Degenerative changes in the SI joint due to aging can cause inflammation and pain.
  • Traumatic Injury: Injury to the SI joint, such as from a fall or car accident, can result in inflammation and discomfort.
  • Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and the increased weight of the uterus can place additional strain on the SI joint, leading to pain.
  • Sacroiliitis: Inflammation of the SI joint, often caused by autoimmune conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, can contribute to chronic pain.
  • Repetitive Stress: Repetitive movements or postural imbalances can place excess stress on the SI joint, resulting in pain.

Before recommending SI Joint Injections, our team at Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute conducts a thorough evaluation, including diagnostic imaging and possible physical tests, to confirm the SI joint as the source of pain.

How SI Joint Injections Work

SI Joint Injections involve a precise injection of medication directly into the SI joint to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and typically takes less than 30 minutes. It is done under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to ensure accurate placement of the injection.

The injection usually contains two key components:

  1. Local Anesthetic: This numbs the area and provides immediate relief by blocking pain signals from the SI joint.
  2. Corticosteroid: This powerful anti-inflammatory medication helps reduce inflammation and pain in the joint, providing longer-lasting relief.

In some cases, the injection may also include a contrast dye, which helps the physician confirm the precise location of the injection and ensure accurate targeting of the joint.

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Benefits of SI Joint Injections

SI Joint Injections offer several benefits to patients suffering from chronic SI joint pain:

Immediate Pain Relief

The local anesthetic in the injection provides immediate pain relief, helping patients feel better almost right away. This allows for improved mobility and better participation in daily activities.

Long-Term Pain Reduction

The corticosteroid helps to reduce inflammation in the SI joint, leading to sustained pain relief for weeks or even months. While results vary from patient to patient, many experience significant improvement in pain levels and functionality following the procedure.

Non-Surgical Approach

SI Joint Injections are a non-invasive treatment option, meaning they don’t require surgery or long recovery times. This makes them an excellent alternative for patients who are not candidates for surgery or want to explore non-surgical solutions before considering more invasive procedures.

Minimally Invasive

The injection is performed using a small needle and requires minimal recovery time. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a day or two after the procedure.

Accurate Diagnosis

The injection can also serve as a diagnostic tool. If the patient experiences significant pain relief following the injection, it can confirm that the SI joint is indeed the source of the pain, helping guide future treatment options.

Recovery and Aftercare

Following an SI Joint Injection, most patients can resume normal activities the same day, though it’s advisable to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for 24 to 48 hours. Some mild soreness or swelling around the injection site is common and typically resolves within a few days.

While the corticosteroid medication can take a few days to show its full effects, many patients experience significant pain relief within a week. In some cases, the pain relief may last for several months, allowing patients to continue their daily routines with minimal discomfort.

Patients will be monitored for any side effects, and follow-up visits may be scheduled to assess the effectiveness of the injection. If the injection proves successful, further injections or complementary treatments may be recommended as part of an ongoing pain management plan.

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Why Choose Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute?

At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, we offer advanced, evidence-based treatments for SI joint dysfunction, including SI Joint Injections. Our expert team, led by Dr. Michael Gerling, is committed to providing the highest standard of care using the latest techniques and technology. We take a personalized approach to treatment, ensuring that each patient receives a plan that is tailored to their specific condition and needs.

Our clinic is dedicated to improving your health and quality of life by providing effective, minimally invasive solutions for chronic back pain. We prioritize patient comfort and strive to achieve the best possible outcomes with every treatment.

Take the Next Step Toward Pain Relief

If you’re struggling with chronic lower back pain or SI joint discomfort, SI Joint Injections may provide the relief you’ve been seeking. Contact Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute today to schedule a consultation and find out how our expert team can help you regain control over your pain and improve your spine health.

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