If you suffer from lower back pain, hip discomfort, or sciatica-like symptoms that have not improved with epidural steroid injections (ESIs), your sacroiliac (SI) joint may be the source of your pain. At Vertex Pain Physicians, we offer sacroiliac joint injections as an effective, minimally invasive treatment to reduce inflammation and provide lasting relief from sacroiliac joint dysfunction and sacroiliitis.
What Are Sacroiliac Joint Injections?
Sacroiliac joint injections are a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure used to treat pain originating from the sacroiliac joint, which connects your lumbar spine to your pelvis. The SI joint plays a crucial role in stabilizing your body during movement, but when inflammation or dysfunction occurs, it can lead to significant pain radiating to your lower back, hips, buttocks, or legs.
These injections deliver a precise combination of local anesthetic and corticosteroid medication directly into the SI joint. The local anesthetic helps to temporarily numb the area, serving as a diagnostic tool to confirm whether the SI joint is the source of your pain. Meanwhile, the corticosteroid works to reduce inflammation, providing long-lasting relief and improving mobility over time.
Which Conditions Can Be Treated with Sacroiliac Joint Injections?
Sacroiliac joint injections are commonly used to diagnose and treat pain caused by a variety of conditions that affect the SI joint, including:
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: Misalignment or improper movement of the SI joint, often leading to chronic lower back and pelvic pain.
Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of the cartilage in the SI joint, causing inflammation and pain.
Ankylosing Spondylitis: Inflammatory arthritis affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints, causing stiffness and discomfort.
Inflammatory Conditions: Disorders like psoriatic arthritis or reactive arthritis that cause inflammation in the SI joint.
Pregnancy-Related SI Joint Pain: Hormonal changes and increased weight can strain the SI joint during pregnancy, causing pain.
Post-Partum SI Joint Pain: Joint laxity or altered mechanics after childbirth can lead to SI joint pain.
Post-Surgical Pain: Pain in the SI joint after spinal surgeries like lumbar fusion or discectomy, resulting from increased stress on the joint.
Trauma or Injury: Direct injuries to the SI joint from falls, accidents, or sports-related impacts.
How Are Sacroiliac Joint Injections Performed?
Sacroiliac joint injections are typically performed under local anesthesia and fluoroscopy (X-Ray). Here’s what to expect during sacroiliac joint injections:
1
What Happens During the Procedure?
Preparation: You will lie comfortably on an exam table, and the injection site will be sterilized and numbed with a local anesthetic.
Imaging Guidance: Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-Ray), the doctor will guide the needle precisely into the sacroiliac joint.
Injection: A small amount of anesthetic and corticosteroid medication is injected into the SI joint.
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How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The procedure is minimally invasive and typically takes 10 minutes.
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What Happens After the Procedure?
Post-Procedure Monitoring: You will be monitored briefly to ensure your safety before being discharged the same day.
Recovery: Most patients can resume light activities almost immediately, though it’s important to rest for 24 hours before resuming strenuous activities.
What to Expect After Sacroiliac Joint Injections?
Quick Relief
Many patients experience an early reduction in pain due to the anesthetic.
Long-Term Benefits
The corticosteroid works to reduce inflammation, offering relief that can last weeks or even months.
Follow-Up Plan
If the injections are effective, they may be repeated a few times a year as part of a comprehensive pain management plan. If the injections are effective but short-lived, there are other procedures that can help provide even longer-lasting pain relief. Speak with your doctor during your clinic visit if this situation applies to you.
What Are the Benefits of Sacroiliac Joint Injections?
Choosing sacroiliac joint injections offers several key benefits, including:
Minimally Invasive
The procedure is quick, involves minimal downtime, and does not require major surgery.
Targeted Relief
The injections provide focused pain relief by directly targeting the SI joint, rather than masking symptoms.
Improved Mobility
Patients often report better movement and less pain, allowing them to engage in daily activities.
Long-Lasting Relief
Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and provide sustained pain relief for months.
Reduced Dependence on Medications
These injections can reduce the need for oral pain medications, including opioids.
What Are the Risks of Sacroiliac Joint Injections?
While SI joint injections are generally safe, there are some potential risks, including:
- Infection: At the injection site, though this risk is minimal with proper care and sterile techniques.
- Bleeding or Bruising: Around the injection site.
- Temporary Pain: Some patients may experience temporary soreness or pain at the injection site.
- Nerve Damage: Rarely, there may be irritation or injury to surrounding nerves.
- Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, a reaction to the injected medication can occur.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re struggling with sacroiliac joint pain and want a targeted, effective solution, sacroiliac joint injections could be the answer. Contact Vertex Pain Physicians today to take the first step to regain your mobility, reduce your pain, and improve your quality of life!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do the effects last?
Relief can last from several weeks to months, depending on the severity of your condition, your overall health, and your personal response to the therapy.
How successful are SI joint injections?
SI joint injections are highly effective for many patients suffering from SI joint dysfunction, providing significant pain relief and improved mobility, with results lasting weeks to months.
Can you walk after a sacroiliac joint injection?
Yes, most patients can walk shortly after the procedure, but it’s recommended to rest and avoid strenuous activity for the first 24 hours.
Are there risks involved?
SI joint injections are generally safe. Rare risks include infection, bleeding, or temporary soreness at the injection site.
Are SI joint injections painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure, thanks to the use of a local anesthetic.
What does a sacroiliac joint injection do?
The injection reduces inflammation and pain in the SI joint and helps confirm whether the joint is the source of discomfort.
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns.
