Dr. Vaishali Suri (P.T.)
The Sacroiliac Joint: A Common Pain Source
The sacroiliac (SI) joints connect the sacrum (base of the spine) to the iliac bones of the pelvis. SI joint pain accounts for 15–25% of all lower back pain — yet it is frequently misdiagnosed as lumbar disc pain or dismissed as non-specific back pain. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
Causes of SI Joint Dysfunction
SI joint pain can result from: pregnancy (relaxin hormone loosens SI joint ligaments), trauma (fall on the buttock, motor vehicle accident), prolonged asymmetric loading (occupational), inflammatory arthritis (ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis), and leg length inequality. It is particularly common postnatally.
Diagnosis
SI joint pain is diagnosed clinically through a combination of provocation tests (FABER, Gaenslen's, distraction, compression, thigh thrust tests) — no single test is definitive, but a combination of 3+ positive tests has good diagnostic accuracy. We perform a systematic assessment to differentiate SI joint pain from lumbar and hip sources.
Physiotherapy Treatment
SI Joint Stabilisation
The primary treatment is stabilisation exercise — strengthening the muscles that control SI joint movement: gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and deep core (transversus abdominis). These muscles provide the 'force closure' that stabilises the SI joint.
SI Belt
A sacroiliac belt provides external 'form closure' — compressing the SI joints and reducing pain. Most effective for hypermobile SI joints (e.g., postnatal). Should be used alongside strengthening, not instead of it.
Manual Therapy
SI joint mobilisation and manipulation can provide effective short-term pain relief. Soft tissue techniques address the piriformis and gluteal muscles that commonly become tight with SI dysfunction.
SI Joint Treatment in Faridabad
At Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5, Faridabad, we accurately diagnose and effectively treat SI joint pain. Book your assessment today.