What is Sacroiliac joint Dysfunction?
The sacroiliac joints sit between the sacrum, which forms the base of your spine, and the left and right ilia that are the large bony plates that make up the back of the pelvis. Because there is very little movement at this joint the sacrum and ilia rotate and pivot like a single structure. However, there is still a layer of cartilage and h2 ligament fibres holding the joint together and cushioning forces exerted on the joint.
Because the sacroiliac joint is the main structural connection between the body and its lower limbs, it experiences large forces through its surface. Several factors can cause dysfunction at this joint that can lead to pain. A dull ache or occasional sharp pain are the main characteristics of sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
Above: Hip assesment to identify sacroiliac dysfunction.
What causes Sacroiliac joint Dysfunction?
Being part of the bodies core structure the pelvis and sacrum absorb and transfer many different forces. Some are received directly to the lower abdomen, others are forces referred through the spine and legs. The Sacroiliac Joint is where many of these forces pass and the causes of dysfunction may include;
- Normal wear and tear of cartilage tissue as you age.
- Direct impact trauma, from either a fall or collision.
- Over use, repetitive strain on joint from work or sports activity.
- Biomechanical abnormality , such as muscle imbalance or differing leg lengths.
- Repetitive inflammation from conditions like Arthritis or Gout.
- Pregnancy hormones increase pelvic joint laxity for easier birth, but can lead to excessive joint movement and wearing.
What are the symptoms of Sacroiliac joint Dysfunction?
The typical presentation of symptoms for Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is pain and aching around the hip area. It can be very difficult to pinpoint the exact source of pain, as it can refer to the groin, the thighs and lower back. The sacroiliac joint pain is usually worse when standing, walking or running, due to the extra forces placed through the joint. Pain is alleviated when lying down, removing the pressure from the joints. Sometimes specific movements such as bending the hips or rolling over in bed can cause a sudden sharp pain.
Diagnosis of Sacroiliac joint Dysfunction
A Doctor or Physiotherapist can confirm the presence of Sacroiliac Joint dysfunction following a details subjective history of your current condition, followed by a thorough physical examination to rule our other possible conditions.
Above: All our exercises can be adapted in order for your to complete them pain free and get the most from your therapy sessions.For more information about how Physiotherapy can help treat Sacro iliac Joint Dysfunction, or to book an appointment, please contact us via email at office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or call us on 0151 558 0077 .
What would a physiotherapy assessment for Joint Sprain involve?
At Liverpool Physio, we want to gain as much information as possible about your condition to ensure we give you the best treatment. In your first appointment with us, our physiotherapists will carry out an assessment which has two parts:
Subjective
A discussion between you and our physiotherapist to find out the cause of your injury and what symptoms you are experiencing, and how your injury is affecting you and your lifestyle.
Objective
An assessment of your range of pain, range of movement, and a series of special tests to identify the presence of the Sacroiliac joint Dysfunction.
What would Physiotherapy Treatment for Sacroiliac joint Dysfunction involve?
Treatment for Sacroiliac Joint dysfunction will differ based on the symptoms present and the assessed cause of pain. Broadly, dysfunction occurs in the Sacroiliac Joint from either excessive laxity in the connective tissues or from excessive tightness. One of our experienced physiotherapists here at Liverpool Physio will identify the root cause of your pain and treat it accordingly, treatments may include;
- Heat treatment, including ice therapy, to alleviate pain.
- Soft tissue massage for pain relief.
- Joint mobilisation to relieve pain and stiffness.
- Gently progressive strengthening exercises to stabilise core and surrounding joints.
- Stretching and postural correction exercises to address any biomechanical abnormalities.
- Advice on activity modification to prevent re-injury during recovery and beyond.
- Advice for using orthotics in gait or posture correction.
- Advice on appropriate use of Sacroiliac Joint belt to improve stability during recovery.
Your Physiotherapist will use a combination of the above techniques to initially relieve your pain before working to resolve the cause of the joint dysfunction. They may recommend exercise classes like Pilates or yoga which help strengthen the core muscles that facilitate pelvic stability. In extreme or chronic cases a doctor may recommend surgery to remove cartilage from the Sacroiliac joint and fuse the bones together, eliminating movement and pain at the joint.
Whatever the severity of your symptoms the skilled physiotherapists at Liverpool Physio will use every treatment session to ensure you achieve the best possible recovery in the shortest possible time. A personalised rehabilitation programme applied under the direction of your Physiotherapist will help you reach your recovery goals.
How can I arrange a physiotherapy assessment for Sacroiliac joint Dysfunction?
If you are experiencing pain, aching, stiffness or sharp pain in the base of your spine or pelvis, you may have Sacroiliac joint Dysfunction and would benefit from an assessment form one of our experienced physiotherapists.
You can contact us directly to arrange an assessment and we can advise you if further treatment is recommended, or give you details on self-management for minor cases. To arrange an appointment please email office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or call 0151 558 0077 .
Summary
Sacroiliac joint Dysfunction can affect people from all backgrounds and levels of activity. It can present as minor aching and discomfort or as a severe pain inhibiting normal activity. The level of damage may not always be obvious, so early diagnosis is important to avoid further injury and achieve the best possible recovery.
At Liverpool Physio we want to ensure you get the best treatment for your injury and we will use ice therapy, massage, stretch and strengthening exercises as appropriate, to help you recover and return to normal daily activities.
For more information about how Physiotherapy can help treat Sacro iliac Joint Dysfunction, or to book an appointment, please contact us via email at office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or call us on 0151 558 0077 .
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