About Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Instability
The sacroiliac (SI) joints are the foundation of the spine, located at the junctions of the sacrum and ilium on each side.
These complex joints, composed of systems of ligaments and multiplanar joint surfaces, transmit the forces exerted through the spine from the upper body to the legs. The SI joint is designed to absorb shock forces and is naturally limited to only minute motion. Instability in the SI joint is a major pain generator in some patients.
Although there have been many advances in surgical techniques to address instability problems in the lumbar spine, instability in the SI joint has remained unaddressed, with most patients running out of options once conservative treatments have failed to offer continued relief from painful SI symptoms.
Causes of SI Joint Instability & Pain
- Prior Injury or Accident
- Low Back Instability or Prior Low Back Surgery
- Ligamentous Loosening Due to Pregnancy
- Arthritis
Common Symptoms of Pain Involving the SI Joint
- Low Back Pain
- Pelvis/Buttock Pain
- Lower Extremity Pain
- Hip/Groin Pain
- Problems Sitting, Sleeping, or Walking