Overview of the Sacroiliac Joint
The sacroiliac joints connect the hip bones to the sacrum and the pelvic bone. The SI joint transfers weight and forces between your upper body and pelvis and legs. The SI joint is the shock absorber and provides stability when you walk, run and jump. The SI joint contains many nerve endings that can cause significant pain if the joint is damaged or loses its mobility. Arthritis, wear and tear, or injury can damage these joints by changing their normal movement and creating chronic and sometimes debilitating SI joint pain that often, is perceived as low back pain.
Sacroiliac joint pain, often referred to as SI joint pain, is a common problem for suffers of low back pain. According to WebMD, 15-30% of low back sufferers are experiencing SI joint pain. Dr. Brandon Claflin and Dr. Jeff Halsell, at Oklahoma Interventional Spine and Pain, have successfully treated SI joint pain in his patients at their practice, Oklahoma Interventional Spine and Pain (OISP). OISP has locations in Tulsa, Bartlesville and Stillwater.
Anatomy
The red arrows in the image below are pointing to the sacroiliac joints.
Modalities
To manage the pain associated with SI joint pain, many people are treated with one or more of the following:
- Pain medication
- Stretching
- Physical therapy
- Joint injections
- Radio frequency ablation
- Surgery
One size does not fit all with SI joint pain and it is best to work with a pain specialist that has experience in treating this condition with multiple modalities such as Dr. Jeff Halsell and Dr. Brandon Claflin.
The SI joint is supported by strong ligaments, some of which extend across the back of the pelvis. This collection of soft tissues provides support, restricts movement at the joint, and assists with absorbing pressure. The gluteus maximus and piriformis muscle also provide support for the SI joint.
When do I call Dr. Brandon Claflin or Dr. Jeff Halsell?
In most cases, SI joint pain is first noticed in the lower back, buttocks, or sometimes as pain in the leg. The pain is usually caused by injury or damage to the joint between the spine and hips. SI joint pain can mimic other conditions including a herniated disk. If you think you may have SI joint pain, please make an appointment with Dr. Brandon Claflin or Dr. Jeff Halsell with Oklahoma Interventional Spine and Pain by calling 918-728-8020.