SACROILIAC JOINT DYSFUNCTION
Sacroiliac Joint (SIJ) dysfunction can be the cause of back, hip, groin and sciatic pain. The SIJ is a heavy weight bearing joint that connects the pelvis and the sacrum. There are two joints, one on either side of the sacrum and they are reinforced by strong ligaments. The two joints do not have a great range of movement but provide shock absorption for the spine.
Like most other joints the SIJ has cartilage that covers the bone- when this is worn away or damaged the bones begin to rub against each other and cause pain. Any condition that changes normal walking patterns can place extra stress on SI joints. This may include a leg length difference (check out our blog!) or pain in lower leg joints (knee or ankle). Conditions that affect the joints of the body can cause SIJ pain- rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis.
Pregnancy is another common cause of SIJ dysfunction. Hormones relax the women’s ligaments in preparation for birth leading to increased motion in the SIJ. The additional weight and altered walking seen during pregnancy all places stress on the SIJ leading to wear.
Some symptoms that you may identify are:
- Lower back, groin, hip, buttock pain
- Sciatic pain
- Pain worse when standing and walking
- Pain when lying on side for extended periods
- Pain when bending forward
SOLE THERAPY can help by:
- Immediately addressing pain levels
- Assessing factors that may contribute to development of SIJ dysfunction with our 1 hour biomechanical assessment
- Effectively manage these factors with customized orthotics, exercise programs and taping
- Prevent further degeneration of SI Joint
Come and visit SOLE THERAPY for an assessment of your lower back pain today!!
Words from our podiatrist,
Daniel Talevski
