Is Your Sacroiliac Joint Causing Your Lower Back Pain?
Is Your Sacroiliac Joint Causing Your Lower Back Pain?
One of the reasons back pain is such a common medical complaint (most people will experience it at least once in their lives) is because it has so many different potential causes. Most people are familiar with the common ones, like a strained back muscle or a herniated disc.
But sometimes, back pain isn’t really back pain–at least not how we generally conceive it. While you might experience pain or discomfort in your lower back, the actual source of the pain might be a little lower, in your sacroiliac joint.
At Kaizen Physical Therapy, our team of physical therapists understands that the best way to resolve back pain is to determine where that pain is coming from. Thanks to our comprehensive assessments, we can help you determine if your lower back pain is actually a symptom of problems with your sacroiliac joint –and then provide you with a targeted treatment to help resolve it.
The Sacroiliac Joint: What It Is and What Can Go Wrong
The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects your spine to your pelvis. You have two of them, one on each side. They’re connected to the sacrum, a small triangular bone at the base of your spine.
The SI joints allow you to transfer weight between your upper and lower body. However, the joints themselves don’t move all that much, and they’re located fairly deep in your pelvic structure, surrounded by strong ligaments and muscles.
There are two reasons why your sacroiliac joint might cause your pain:
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction occurs due to biomechanical issues in your SI joint. It’s particularly common during pregnancy, as the sacroiliac joint is “loosened up” in preparation for childbirth (hypermobility). However, an overly restricted sacroiliac joint can also cause issues (hypomobility).
- Sacroiliitis refers to an SI joint inflammation due to osteoarthritis, hormonal changes during pregnancy, or injury.
Both conditions can cause similar symptoms. The biggest difference between the two is the presence of inflammation, as there are no inflammatory processes with SI joint dysfunction.
Issues with Your SI Joint? How to Tell
It can be difficult to determine if you’re struggling with SI joint issues or lower back pain, as they can cause similar symptoms. If you’re struggling with any pain or discomfort in your back or buttocks, your best bet is to schedule an appointment with our physical therapists. We can help you get to the bottom of things.
That said, here are some of the common signs of SI joint issues:
• You experience pain directly over your buttocks.
• The pain seems to stem from deep inside your body.
• You’ll notice pain when sitting, lying down, or climbing stairs. In fact, you may have trouble sitting for long periods due to the pain.
Exercise of the Month
Clamshells (Exercise Band)
(Hips, Glutes)
This exercise is excellent for strengthening the hip muscles that support your sacroiliac joint. Lie on your side with your knees bent at 90 degrees. Place a resistance band around your thighs, just above your knees. Keeping your feet together, slowly lift your top knee away from the bottom knee while maintaining contact between your feet. Hold for a moment at the top, then slowly lower back down. Focus on controlled movement and proper form. Perform 3 sets of 15 repetitions on each side.
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Treating SI Joint Pain: What To Expect
We’ll begin with a comprehensive physical exam to help us determine the exact source of your pain, including confirming if the SI joint is involved at all. Once we understand your unique situation, our experts will develop your customized treatment program. Here’s what you might expect:
- Pain Management: We’ll find a solution that suits your needs. Spinal mobilizations and other manual therapy techniques can help if your pain stems from immobility. Hot and cold therapy can help manage pain and inflammation.
- Mobility Exercises: If applicable, we can guide you through targeted exercises to improve the flexibility and mobility in your SI joint.
- Strengthening Exercises: One of the best ways to address SI pain is to strengthen your core and gluteus muscles, both of which support and stabilize the SI joint. Our therapists will develop an exercise program appropriate to your needs and ensure you perform all exercises correctly.
- Prevention Tips: Finally, we’ll work with you to help you adopt a physically active lifestyle, which can help reduce and prevent SI dysfunction.
Sources: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Sacroiliac_Joint_Syndrome, https://www.physio-pedia.com/Sacroiliitis, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470299/
Pelvic Floor Workshop
Join us for an informative workshop on pelvic floor health and its connection to SI joint pain! Many people don’t realize that pelvic floor dysfunction can contribute to lower back and SI joint issues. Our specialized therapists will guide you through understanding the relationship between your pelvic floor, core stability, and SI joint health.
This workshop is especially beneficial for those experiencing SI joint pain during or after pregnancy, as well as anyone interested in learning more about comprehensive pelvic health. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today!
Recipe: Anti-Inflammatory Golden Turmeric Smoothie
Reduce inflammation naturally with this delicious and nutritious smoothie! Perfect for supporting your body’s healing process while managing SI joint pain.
Ingredients:
• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of black pepper (enhances turmeric absorption)
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tbsp honey (optional)
Toppings:
Fresh berries, sliced almonds, coconut flakes, hemp seeds
Instructions:
Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Pour into a glass and add your favorite toppings. The combination of turmeric, ginger, and black pepper creates a powerful anti-inflammatory effect that can help support your body’s natural healing processes.
What’s Causing Your Back Pain?
You don’t have to put up with persistent pain, whether it’s in your back, buttocks, or radiating down your leg! The physical therapists at Kaizen Physical Therapy will dig down deep to determine the underlying source of your pain, no matter what it is.
Ready to get started? Call us to schedule an appointment today!
Take Control of Your SI Joint Pain
Don’t let SI joint dysfunction keep you from living your life to the fullest. At Kaizen Physical Therapy, we specialize in identifying the root cause of your pain and creating personalized treatment plans that get results. Whether you’re dealing with pregnancy-related discomfort, post-injury pain, or chronic SI joint issues, our expert team is here to help you find relief and regain your mobility.
Schedule your comprehensive assessment today and start your journey toward pain-free movement!