Targeted Relief for Lower Back and Pelvic Pain

If you’re experiencing persistent lower back or pelvic pain, sacroiliac joint injections could provide the relief you’ve been searching for. This non-surgical treatment targets the sacroiliac joints, reducing inflammation and numbing the area to alleviate pain and improve your quality of life.

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What Is a Sacroiliac Joint Injection?

A sacroiliac joint injection is a targeted procedure used to diagnose and treat pain associated with the sacroiliac joint, where the spine meets the pelvis. This injection can relieve symptoms of sacroiliac joint dysfunction, including lower back pain, sciatica-like pain in the buttocks or legs, and discomfort while standing or walking. The injection typically contains a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and a local anesthetic to relieve pain.

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How Is a Sacroiliac Injection Performed?

The procedure is usually conducted with the patient lying face down. A local anesthetic is used to clean and numb the skin over the sacroiliac joint. Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, the physician directs a needle into the sacroiliac joint. A medication mixture of a corticosteroid and anesthetic is then injected to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. The process typically takes less than 30 minutes.

The sacroiliac joint injection serves both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Diagnostically, it helps to confirm that the sacroiliac joint is the source of pain if relief is experienced following the injection. Therapeutically, the injection aims to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief, potentially lasting for several months.

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What Are the Benefits of Sacroiliac Joint Injections?

Sacroiliac joint injections offer several key benefits for patients experiencing lower back and pelvic pain, including the following:

  • Targeted Pain Relief: By delivering medication directly to the source of pain, SI joint injections provide effective and localized relief.
  • Minimally Invasive: This non-surgical procedure involves only a small needle and a quick recovery period.
  • Improved Mobility: Reducing inflammation in the SI joint can help restore movement and ease discomfort, allowing you to engage in daily activities more easily.
  • Diagnostic Tool: Besides providing pain relief, the injection can help confirm the SI joint as the source of your pain, guiding further treatment options.

Pre-Op and Post-Op Instructions

PRE-OP

  • Arrange for transportation home, as you may experience temporary numbness or weakness in the legs.
  • Discuss all current medications with your physician, particularly if you’re taking blood thinners, as these may need to be adjusted.
  • Follow any specific instructions regarding eating and drinking if sedation is to be used.
  • Notify your doctor of any signs of infection or illness, as the procedure may need to be rescheduled.

POST-OP

  • Rest the affected area and avoid strenuous activities for at least 24 to 48 hours to allow the injection to take full effect.
  • Apply ice to the injection site if you experience minor swelling or discomfort.
  • Be vigilant for signs of infection or adverse reactions, such as fever, increased pain, or swelling, and contact your physician if these occur.
  • Follow-up appointments are crucial to evaluate the injection’s effectiveness and discuss further treatment options.
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Next Steps After a Sacroiliac Joint Injection

If the sacroiliac joint injection provides significant relief but symptoms return after some time, repeat injections may be considered. Additional treatments, such as physical therapy or radiofrequency ablation, may also be recommended to provide longer-term relief. In cases where conservative measures do not effectively manage the pain, surgical options may be discussed.

If you’re ready to take control of your pain and improve your quality of life, schedule a consultation with the Advanced Relief Institute today. Our team is here to help you find the best treatment options for your needs and guide you on your journey to lasting relief.

Sacroiliac Joint Injections FAQ

How long does the relief from a sacroiliac joint injection last?

Can sacroiliac joint injections be repeated?

Is the sacroiliac joint injection procedure painful?

What are the risks and side effects of sacroiliac joint injections?

Who is a good candidate for sacroiliac joint injections?

How does a sacroiliac joint injection compare to other pain management options?

What should I expect after the procedure?

How long does the relief from a sacroiliac joint injection last?

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.

Can sacroiliac joint injections be repeated?

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.

Is the sacroiliac joint injection procedure painful?

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.

What are the risks and side effects of sacroiliac joint injections?

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.

Who is a good candidate for sacroiliac joint injections?

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.

How does a sacroiliac joint injection compare to other pain management options?

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.

What should I expect after the procedure?

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.

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