Say Goodbye to Your SI Joint Pain

SI (sacroiliac) joint pain is a common issue that can limit your everyday activities—things like climbing stairs or getting in and out of the car can become uncomfortable. Located where the sacrum (base of your spine) meets the pelvis, the SI joints play a vital role in transferring weight and force between your upper body and legs. Here’s what you should know about SI joint pain, its causes, and ways to find relief!

Causes of SI Joint Pain

SI joint pain can arise from various causes, including:

Pregnancy: Hormones like relaxin loosen pelvic ligaments for childbirth, but this added mobility can lead to joint instability and pain.
Trauma: Direct impacts, such as from a fall or accident, may injure the SI joint, leading to pain and dysfunction.
Repetitive Stress: Activities involving repetitive movement, such as running or lifting, can strain the SI joints over time.
Arthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis or ankylosing spondylitis can inflame the SI joints, causing discomfort.
Leg Length Discrepancy: When one leg is shorter than the other, an imbalance can place stress on the SI joints.

Symptoms of SI Joint Pain

Sharp or stabbing pain in the lower back and buttocks.
Pain that radiates to the hips, thighs, or groin.
Discomfort when sitting for long periods or when changing positions.
Stiffness and reduced mobility in the lower back.
Pain that worsens with activities like climbing stairs, running, getting in/out of bed, and/or standing up from a seated position.

Diagnosis and Treatment

SI joint pain can be misdiagnosed due to its overlap with other conditions like low back or hip issues. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Options:

Physical Therapy: A personalized exercise program focusing on glute, back, and core strength can greatly reduce pain. At Well Balanced, we combine exercise with hands-on manual therapy like joint mobilization to improve stability and mobility. PT is effective whether this pain is old or new.
Medications and Injections: Your physician may recommend medications and/or corticosteroid injections.
Braces + Supportive Devices: A sacroiliac belt or belly band can stabilize the joint and provide comfort. Let us know if you'd like a recommendation! Oftentimes you will feel relief the moment you put the device on. If you don't, go ahead and return it. You are out nothing by trying a support device.
Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting ergonomic adjustments at work and home, avoiding activities that exacerbate pain, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly impact SI joint health. One tip that we often give if your pain bothers you in bed, is place a pillow between the knees, shins and ankles.
Chiropractic Care: Sioux Falls has numerous chiropractic options. Research your choices to find one that aligns with your values and goals.

SI Joint Pain and Pregnancy

While SI joint pain can affect anyone, it’s particularly common during pregnancy. Hormonal changes and the added weight of a growing baby can lead to joint instability, increasing the likelihood of discomfort. Gentle, targeted exercises can help strengthen the area and relieve pain. At Well Balanced, we specialize in prenatal care, providing extra support and tailored exercises to help you maintain strength and stability throughout pregnancy.

SI joint pain is a complex condition that benefits from a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention—especially during the acute phase—can prevent it from becoming a chronic issue. Whether your SI joint pain is pregnancy-related or from other causes, we’re here to help with hands-on care and a custom treatment plan to provide relief, restore function, and get you back to enjoying life comfortably.