SI Joint Pain

Pain in the lower back, buttocks, or hips can often be traced back to the sacroiliac (SI) joint—the point where the spine and pelvis meet. When this joint becomes irritated or inflamed, it can lead to discomfort and difficulty with everyday movement. At Austin Sports Medicine, serving Central and South Austin, Bee Cave, Cedar Park, and Pflugerville, Texas, experienced orthopedic specialists offer advanced diagnosis and treatment options for SI joint pain. If you're experiencing chronic lower back pain, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

What are the signs of SI joint pain?

SI joint pain can be mistaken for other back or hip problems, but certain symptoms often point to this condition. These include:

• Pain in the lower back, hips, buttocks, or groin
• Discomfort that worsens when standing, walking, or climbing stairs
• Pain when transitioning from sitting to standing
• Stiffness or a burning sensation in the pelvis
• Difficulty lying on one side or uneven pressure in the hips

The pain may be sharp, aching, or even radiate down the legs, making it similar to sciatica. However, unlike nerve pain, SI joint discomfort is typically due to joint instability or inflammation.

What are the causes of SI joint pain?

SI joint pain often occurs when the joint becomes either too stiff or too loose. This can lead to inflammation and irritation. Common causes include:

• Injury or trauma: A fall or car accident can jolt the SI joint
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and added pressure on the pelvis can strain the joint
• Repetitive motion: Sports or jobs that involve frequent twisting or lifting
• Arthritis: Wear and tear or inflammation of the joint over time
• Leg length differences or spinal misalignment: Can shift weight unevenly and stress the joint
  

Athletes, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with a history of lower back or pelvic injuries may be more likely to develop SI joint dysfunction.

How is SI joint pain diagnosed and treated?

To accurately diagnose SI joint pain, a provider will perform a detailed physical exam and ask about your symptoms. Diagnostic tools may include:

• X-rays or MRI: To rule out other causes of lower back pain
• SI joint injections: A numbing injection into the joint can help confirm the diagnosis if it relieves pain
  

Treatment for SI joint pain depends on the severity and cause. Non-surgical options include:

• Physical therapy: To strengthen supporting muscles and improve joint stability
• Anti-inflammatory medications: To reduce swelling and discomfort
• Activity modification: Avoiding movements that aggravate the joint
• SI joint belt: A supportive brace that stabilizes the joint
  

For chronic or severe cases that don’t respond to conservative care, minimally invasive procedures—such as radiofrequency ablation or SI joint fusion—may be recommended.

At Austin Sports Medicine, the goal is to relieve pain, restore function, and help you get back to the activities you enjoy. Schedule an evaluation by phone or online to find lasting relief from SI joint pain.