What Is a Sacroiliac Joint?
A sacroiliac joint is the connection between the sacrum at the base of the spine and the ilium of the pelvis. Each person has a joint on each side. These joints support the upper body, transfer force between the spine and legs, and allow small movements during walking, standing, and bending. For more detail, see Spine Pain Procedures Explained: Epidurals, Facet Injections, and Nerve Blocks.
Quick Facts About Sacroiliac Joint
Category
Pelvic joint
Used for
Weight transfer and movement
Common confusion
Hip or lower back pain
Also called
SI Joint, sacroiliac articulation
Often discussed with
Sacroiliac Joint Injection, Joint Injections
Key Takeaways About Sacroiliac Joint
- Each side of the pelvis has one sacroiliac joint.
- The joints transfer force between the spine and legs.
- Sacroiliac joint pain isn't the same as hip or spinal pain.
How Sacroiliac Joint Works
The sacroiliac joint links the sacrum with the pelvic bones. Strong ligaments support the joint and limit its movement. The joint still shifts slightly as you walk, climb, sit, or change position.
Related glossary terms: Lumbar Spine, Facet Joint, Referred Pain.
Clinicians assess the joint by reviewing your pain pattern, movement, and physical examination findings. They may also compare the joint with nearby structures, such as the lumbar spine or hip, because several areas can produce similar pain. A sacroiliac joint injection places medicine near the joint to help identify the pain source and reduce local irritation.
From the Premier Injury Specialists team
When we assess the sacroiliac joint, we review your symptoms and examine nearby areas that can cause similar pain. For a sacroiliac joint injection, our team uses the clinical findings to guide the treatment plan and track how your symptoms respond.
Sacroiliac Joint in Practice: A Real-World Example
A person may report pain near one side of the lower back or buttock that worsens during position changes. A sacroiliac joint injection may help the physician assess whether that joint contributes to the pain.
Related Services
Related Terms
Lumbar Spine
The lumbar spine is the lower section of the back, located between the thoracic spine and…
Facet Joint
A Facet Joint is a small joint between the bones at the back of the spine…
Referred Pain
Referred Pain is discomfort felt in one body area even though the source lies elsewhere. Shared…
Inflammation
Inflammation is the body’s response to irritation, injury, or disease. It involves changes in nearby tissues…
Premier Injury Specialists
Have Questions About Sacroiliac Joint?
Contact Premier Injury Specialists for practical guidance on Sacroiliac Joint and related pain management physician work in Stockbridge.