The sacroiliac joint is where the upper body meets the lower body by connecting the sacrum with the iliac crest of the pelvis. It transmits all the forces of the upper body to the pelvis and legs, and is the center of motion and shock absorption. Historically, the sacroiliac joint had been regarded as the main cause of back pain.

Alteration in the normal joint motion may be the culprit behind sacroiliac pain. The pain can be caused by either too much or too little movement in the joint. In cases of hypermobility, there is too much movement creating instability. This pain is typically felt in the lower back or hip and may radiate into groin area. With hypomobility or fixation, there is too little movement. This pain is typically felt on one side of the low back or buttocks, and can radiate down the leg. The pain usually remains above the knee, but at times pain can extend to the ankle or foot. The pain is similar to sciatica.

What is the difference between sacroiliac pain and sciatica? Inflammation of the sacroiliac joint is caused by a disruption in the normal movement of the joint. When the sacroiliac joint becomes inflamed, the portion of the sciatic nerve that runs directly in front of the joint can be irritated. True sciatica is caused by compression of the nerve root as it exits the spine.

For patients with lower back or buttock pain that stems from the sacroiliac joint, chiropractic is often considered the first line of treatment. The chiropractic treatment goal for sacroiliac joint pain is to restore proper motion to the joint. Specific stretches and strengthening exercises are generally used to further stabilize the joint and prevent future problems.

There is a variety of chiropractic techniques that can be used to correct sacroiliac joint dysfunction, so the doctor will choose the method that is best tolerated and yields the best outcome for the patient.

For more information, contact Wendy at Haydenhealth@gmail.com.