DIAGNOSIS
Diagnosing sacroiliac joint pain accurately is difficult because the signs and symptoms are similar to other typical back conditions. The doctor may conduct a thorough and detailed questioning regarding the patient’s medical history and the symptoms the patient is experiencing. The doctor will also do a physical examination to identify the location of the pain. The doctor will also require imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis. These imaging tests are:
- X-ray: It can help view the structure of the bone. X-ray on the pelvis can allow doctors to assess signs of damage to the sacroiliac joint.
- MRI scan: It can produce images of the soft tissue. An MRI can let doctors see whether there is an inflammation on the sacroiliac joint.
Besides these imaging tests, doctors may also use anesthetic injections. The doctor will insert numbing injections into the sacroiliac joint. If injecting local anesthetic in the sacroiliac joint halted the pain, the doctor may diagnose you with sacroiliac joint pain.
TREATMENT
Treatments for sacroiliac joint pain focuses on relieving the pain, and reestablishing the normal motion of the joint. Surgeries are frequently not required. Sacroiliac joint pain can be managed using self-care, medications, and seldom, surgery.
Self-Care
Self-care is vital for the early treatment of sacroiliac joint pain. It is imperative to stop doing the activities that aggravate the pain (e.g., lifting heavy loads on the back, excessive twisting, etc.). Taking a brief rest period may also help. Applying a cold compress on the pelvis can lessen inflammation, whereas applying hot compress can help reduce muscle tension and can alleviate pain.
Medications
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): ibuprofen, aspirin
- Muscle relaxants
- Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor
Surgery
Surgery is rarely recommended. But in severe cases, surgery will be performed by surgically fusing two bones (sacrum and ilium) with metal screws and or plates.
Other procedures:
- Joint injections: Local anesthetics with corticosteroids
- Radiofrequency denervation: Pain-causing tissues are destroyed with heat
- Electrical stimulation: Allowing electrical stimulator into the sacrum to ease pain
