SI joint injections
SACROILIAC JOINT INJECTIONS
The Sacroiliac (SI) joint serves as the critical linkage between the sacrum (at the base of the spine) and the pelvis. When this joint becomes inflamed—a condition known as Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction—it can result in debilitating lower back pain or referred symptoms similar to sciatica. An SI joint injection serves as both a definitive diagnostic tool and a highly effective therapeutic intervention for managing this discomfort.
Risk Factors for Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
SI joint dysfunction often mimics the symptoms of a herniated disc or sciatica, making accurate diagnosis essential. Women are statistically more predisposed to this condition due to anatomical differences in the pelvis, though it affects patients of all genders. Key risk factors include:
sacroiliac joint pain
WHAT TO EXPECT
To ensure patient comfort, the procedure is typically performed under mild sedation. Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, the physician precisely positions a needle near the SI joint. A contrast dye is first administered to verify exact placement before the medication is delivered.
● Diagnostic Application: A local anesthetic is injected. If the patient experiences a significant, immediate reduction in pain while performing usually painful movements, the SI joint is confirmed as the primary pain generator.● Therapeutic Application: Once the diagnosis is confirmed, a long-acting corticosteroid is injected into the joint. This powerful anti-inflammatory agent provides sustained relief, typically lasting between six months and a year.
LONG-TERM MANAGEMENT
While therapeutic injections offer substantial relief, they are intended to facilitate recovery rather than serve as a standalone cure. By reducing acute pain, these injections create a "window of opportunity" for patients to successfully engage in physical therapy and corrective exercises.
To preserve joint tissue integrity, clinical guidelines generally limit these treatments to three injections per year. For patients seeking a temporary, non-surgical alternative to joint fusion, SI injections remain a premier clinical choice.