The SI joints connect the spine to the hips. The SI joints are shock absorbers that bear the weight of the entire upper body. The SI joints can be irritated and inflamed due to injury, overuse, or ageing processes.
SI joint injections may be diagnostic or therapeutic. The patient rests comfortably on their stomach. The skin is sterilized. A local anaesthetic is given to ensure no pain or discomfort is felt. Using fluoroscopic x-ray guidance, a needle is directed into the SI joint. Once the needle is in a perfect position, anaesthetic and corticosteroid medications are injected. The anaesthetic quickly decreases pain. The corticosteroid decreases inflammation.
Our specialists use SI joint injections to diagnose SI dysfunction. If the patient experiences immediate pain relief after an SI injection, SI dysfunction is diagnosed and effective treatment options are prescribed. Treatment plans usually include a variety of treatment options. Corticosteroids are given during the SI injection to reduce inflammation. Physical therapy strengthens and stretches important back hip, and leg muscles. A brace, oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), rest, ice, and activity modification are also commonly included in an OIBO specialist’s treatment plan.
Patients’ lives should not be dictated by SI joint pain. Our specialists are fellowship trained and board-certified. They obtain a medical history review, perform a physical examination, and order and analyze medical imaging studies to accurately diagnose SI joint dysfunction. As previously mentioned, SI joint injections may be used as a diagnostic test and/or a treatment option. To schedule your appointment with a specialist, call or visit our contact page.
