SI Joint Injections: An Overlooked Cause of Low Back Pain
When patients think of low back pain, they often assume it’s coming from a disc or nerve. But in many cases, the source is the sacroiliac (SI) joint — and it’s commonly overlooked.
What Is the SI Joint?
The SI joints connect your spine to your pelvis. They play a critical role in:
- Transferring weight between your upper body and legs
- Stabilizing movement
- Absorbing impact
When these joints become inflamed, they can cause significant pain.
Symptoms of SI Joint Pain
SI joint dysfunction can feel like:
- Pain in the lower back or buttocks
- Pain that radiates into the hips or thighs
- Discomfort when standing, walking, or climbing stairs
- Pain when transitioning from sitting to standing
What Is an SI Joint Injection?
An SI joint injection delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into the joint.
It serves two purposes:
- Diagnostic: Confirms the SI joint as the source of pain
- Therapeutic: Reduces inflammation and improves function
What to Expect
- Performed under imaging guidance for precision
- Quick, outpatient procedure
- Minimal downtime
Why Diagnosis Matters
SI joint pain is frequently misdiagnosed as disc or hip-related pain.
At Ospina Medical, accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment.
If you’ve been dealing with persistent low back pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments, the SI joint may be the missing piece.