Sacroiliac Joint Injection

The duration of pain relief from a sacroiliac joint injection can vary depending on the individual and the underlying condition. Many patients experience relief that lasts from several weeks to several months. The effectiveness of the injection may also depend on the severity of the inflammation and the specific cause of the pain.

Yes, sacroiliac joint injections can be repeated if necessary. If the initial injection provides significant pain relief, your physician may recommend additional injections to maintain that relief. The frequency and timing of repeat injections will depend on your response to the treatment and the persistence of your symptoms.

The sacroiliac joint injection procedure is generally well-tolerated by most patients. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area, minimizing discomfort during the injection. Some patients may feel slight pressure or mild discomfort during the procedure, but it is typically brief and manageable. Post-procedure soreness at the injection site is common but usually subsides within a day or two.

While sacroiliac joint injections are generally safe, there are potential risks and side effects. These may include temporary soreness at the injection site, bruising, or swelling. In rare cases, patients may experience infection, bleeding, or an allergic reaction to the medication. Your physician will discuss these risks with you before the procedure and take steps to minimize any potential complications.

Sacroiliac joint injections are typically recommended for individuals experiencing chronic lower back or pelvic pain that has not responded well to other treatments, such as physical therapy, oral medications, or other types of injections. Conditions like sacroiliitis, arthritis, or trauma-related inflammation of the SI joints often make a patient a good candidate for this procedure. Your physician will evaluate your medical history and symptoms to determine if this treatment is right for you.

Sacroiliac joint injections offer targeted relief by delivering medication directly to the affected joint, which can be more effective than general pain relief methods like oral medications. Unlike more invasive surgical options, SI joint injections are minimally invasive and involve a quick recovery period. This procedure can also serve a diagnostic purpose, helping to confirm whether the SI joint is the source of pain and guiding further treatment decisions.

After the procedure, the local anesthetic may provide some immediate relief, though it may take a few days for the full effects of the steroid to become apparent. Most patients are advised to rest for the remainder of the day and avoid strenuous activities for a few days. You should monitor the injection site for signs of infection or unusual symptoms and follow up with your physician to assess the injection’s success.