Sacroliitis/Sacroiliac joint pain

Sacroiliitis joint dysfunction is the inflammation of one or both of your sacroiliac joints, which are situated where the lower spine and pelvis connect. Sacroiliitis has been linked to a group of diseases causing inflammatory arthritis in the spine. It is commonly caused by a traumatic injury damaging sacroiliac joints, arthritis, pregnancy or, in rare cases, infection of the sacroiliac joint.

Older adults pose a higher risk of experiencing the painful inflammation of the sacroiliitis joint due to age-related cartilage degeneration. However, those with a history of spine stiffness or stress are also at risk for developing sacroiliitis.

Warning Signs & Symptoms

Sacroiliitis causes pain in the buttocks or lower back extending down one or both legs. Pain and discomfort is often exacerbated when standing for prolonged periods of time, climbing stairs or running.

Sacroilitis can often mimic radiculopathy (sciatica).

Tests to Diagnose Sacroliitis

Sacroiliitis can be suggested through a physical exam and imaging. Physicians generally begin the diagnostic procedure by pressing on the areas of your hips or buttocks that might be experiencing pain.

X-rays and MRIs can be used to detect signs of damage to the sacroiliac joint. Anesthetic injections are the gold standard used to diagnosis sacroilitis. If a numbing injection into your sacroiliac joint alleviates the pain, the sacroiliac joint is identified as the source of pain. Steroid solutions can be added to the injection in order to provide longer lasting relief.

Treatment Options

Treatment for sacroiliitis depends on the symptoms and cause of the condition. Physicians can recommend over-the-counter or prescription medication for pain relief.

A few recommended procedures include: joint injections, radiofrequency denervation, physical therapy and yoga.