Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction Treatment in Phoenix: Gilbert and Mesa, AZ

What is Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction?

Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction and Effective Treatment Options

Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction occurs when the sacroiliac joints, which connect the lower spine to the pelvis, experience pain due to inflammation, instability, or misalignment. These joints are crucial for mobility and stability, and dysfunction can lead to significant discomfort in the lower back, hips, and legs.

When the SI joints become irritated or inflamed, conditions like sciatica, chronic lower back pain, or mobility issues can arise, making even simple movements challenging.

Types of SI Joint Dysfunction

• Unilateral SI Joint Dysfunction: Affects one joint at a time.

• Bilateral SI Joint Dysfunction: Involves both sacroiliac joints.

How Common is SI Joint Dysfunction?

Studies estimate that 15-30% of people with chronic lower back pain have sacroiliac joint dysfunction as the underlying cause. This condition can significantly impact daily life, making it difficult to sit, stand, or perform everyday activities comfortably.

Symptoms and Causes of SI Joint Dysfunction

Symptoms:

• Pain in the lower back, buttocks, hips, or thighs

• Difficulty standing up after sitting for long periods

• Pain that worsens with twisting motions or hip movements

• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting for a long time

Causes:

• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and other degenerative conditions

• Trauma or Injury: Car accidents, falls, or heavy lifting

• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes that loosen the joints

• Inflammation or Infection: Rare conditions like ankylosing spondylitis

Effective SI Joint Dysfunction Treatment at Our Pain Clinic

At The Pain Experts of Arizona, our pain specialists provide advanced treatment options to alleviate SI joint dysfunction and restore mobility. One of the most effective treatments available at our pain clinic is SI joint injections, which serve both as a diagnostic tool and a long-term pain relief solution.

Conditions Treated with SI Joint Injections

• Sacroiliac joint dysfunction

• Sciatica

• Chronic low back pain

What Are SI Joint Injections?

SI joint injections are a minimally invasive treatment where a pain doctor injects a numbing medication or corticosteroid directly into the affected sacroiliac joint. This procedure can quickly diagnose the source of pain and offer lasting relief.

Benefits of SI Joint Injections

• Diagnostic Tool: Helps identify the exact cause of pain

• Pain Relief: Immediate or long-term relief for many patients

• Quick Procedure & Recovery: Short outpatient procedure with minimal downtime

• Inflammation Reduction: Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and pain

Risks and Side Effects

While SI joint injections are generally safe, some risks include:

• Allergic reactions to the medication

• Bleeding or infection at the injection site

• Temporary soreness, bruising, or numbness

• Elevated blood sugar in diabetic patients

Your pain specialist will discuss these risks with you to ensure SI joint injections are the right choice for your condition.

The SI Joint Injection Procedure

Before your procedure, your pain doctor may advise stopping certain medications, such as NSAIDs or blood thinners, to prevent complications. The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting and involves:

1. Preparation: You will lie face down, and a local anesthetic will be applied.

2. Needle Placement: X-ray guidance ensures precise injection placement.

3. Injection: A numbing medication or corticosteroid is injected.

4. Completion & Monitoring: The procedure takes about 20-30 minutes, followed by brief monitoring.

Recovery After SI Joint Injections

Mild swelling or discomfort at the injection site may occur but typically resolves within a few days. Your pain specialist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or ice packs for additional comfort.

• Diagnostic Injections: Immediate relief helps confirm the pain source.

• Corticosteroid Injections: Full pain relief may take several days to develop.

If you experience no relief within three weeks, your pain doctor will discuss alternative treatment options.

Consult a Pain Specialist Near You

If you’re struggling with persistent lower back or leg pain, SI joint injections may be the right solution. Dr. Ahdev Kuppusamy, a leading pain specialist, offers SI joint injections at The Pain Experts of Arizona, serving patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa.

Take the First Step Toward Pain Relief

Don’t let sacroiliac joint pain disrupt your life. Our pain clinic is dedicated to providing effective, personalized treatments to restore mobility and comfort. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a pain doctor and take control of your pain.

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