Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a physical therapist. Yet, many don’t realize the pain doesn’t always come from the spine itself. In some cases, the real culprit is a small but powerful joint, the sacroiliac joint, or SI joint.
This joint connects your spine to your pelvis and carries the weight of your upper body every time you move. When it becomes inflamed or misaligned, it leads to sacroiliac joint dysfunction, a painful but treatable condition.
Understanding the signs, causes, and sacroiliac joint pain treatment options can help you move freely again without chronic discomfort.
What is Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction?
The sacroiliac joint is located where the sacrum (the base of the spine) meets the iliac bones of the pelvis. It’s responsible for transferring load between your upper and lower body.
When this joint moves too much or too little, it causes sacroiliac joint dysfunction. The result is often deep, aching pain in the lower back, buttocks, or hips that can mimic sciatica.
In medical terms, SI joint dysfunction involves inflammation, uneven joint movement, or muscular imbalances that strain the surrounding ligaments.
5 Common Causes of SI Joint Pain
The sacroiliac joint can become irritated for several reasons. Some are mechanical, others are inflammatory or postural. Here are the most common:
1. Pelvic Imbalance or Misalignment:
Unequal leg length or muscle tension can tilt the pelvis, stressing one SI joint more than the other.
2. Pregnancy and Hormonal Changes:
Hormones loosen ligaments to prepare for childbirth, which can increase joint movement and lead to instability.
3. Repetitive Motion or Lifting:
Frequent bending, twisting, or improper lifting can irritate the joint.
4. Arthritis or Degeneration:
Wear and tear over time may cause inflammation and reduced mobility.
5. Trauma or Accidents:
Falls or car crashes can directly injure the SI joint, resulting in lasting pain if untreated.
Recognizing Symptoms of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
The signs of sacroiliac joint dysfunction can easily be mistaken for other conditions, like a herniated disc or hip arthritis. Here are common indicators:
- Deep pain in one or both sides of the lower back
- Pain that radiates to the buttock, groin, or thigh
- Discomfort when sitting for long periods
- Pain when standing up from a seated position
- Stiffness after sleeping or inactivity
- Increased pain during walking or climbing stairs
The pain may feel dull, burning, or sharp, depending on the inflammation levels. If symptoms persist beyond two weeks, seek a qualified physical therapist for spinal dysfunction assessment to confirm the root cause.
Diagnosis: How SI Joint Dysfunction Is Identified
Since SI joint pain often mimics other back issues, diagnosis usually involves a combination of methods:
1. Physical Examination:
Your therapist may perform motion tests like the FABER or Gaenslen’s test to identify pain triggers.
2. Imaging Studies:
X-rays and MRIs rule out disc problems or arthritis.
3. Diagnostic Injections:
In some cases, a numbing injection is used to pinpoint whether the pain truly originates from the SI joint.
At Synergy Rehab, therapists integrate clinical evaluation and movement analysis to create targeted plans for sacroiliac joint pain treatment.
4 Effective Treatment Options for SI Joint Pain
The best approach depends on the severity and underlying cause, but most patients respond well to non-surgical care.
1. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy remains the gold standard for sacroiliac joint pain treatment.
Customized sessions focus on:
- Strengthening core and hip stabilizers
- Correcting posture and pelvic alignment
- Improving joint flexibility and control
In Southfield, patients receiving physical therapy for spinal dysfunction learn how to restore natural movement and prevent flare-ups.
2. Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques reduce joint stiffness, improve circulation, and release tight muscles surrounding the pelvis.
3. Bracing and Support
For short-term stabilization, a pelvic belt or sacroiliac brace can relieve pressure and support realignment.
4. Injections and Medications
If inflammation is severe, corticosteroid injections may offer temporary relief. However, they work best when paired with long-term rehabilitation.
Physical Therapy for Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
At its core, sacroiliac joint dysfunction is a mechanical issue, meaning movement and muscle balance play a major role in both cause and recovery.
Key Therapy Goals:
- Strengthen the gluteal and core muscles
- Improve hip flexibility and control
- Reduce tension in the lower back and pelvis
- Train proper posture for sitting, standing, and lifting
Therapists at Synergy Rehab use evidence-based programs tailored to each patient’s specific pain pattern and lifestyle. Whether caused by injury, pregnancy, or degeneration, consistent therapy helps restore joint stability and pain-free movement.
4 Home Exercises for Sacroiliac Joint Stability
Try these simple moves to complement professional treatment:
- Knee-to-Chest Stretch: Loosens the lower back.
- Piriformis Stretch: Reduces muscle tightness in the buttocks.
- Bridge Pose: Strengthens the glutes and lower back.
- Pelvic Tilt: Improves core stability and pelvic alignment.
These exercises are safe and effective when performed under professional supervision. For personalized guidance, consult your physical therapy for spinal dysfunction provider.
When to Seek Medical Help
See a healthcare provider if:
- Pain persists for more than two weeks
- Numbness or tingling spreads down your leg
- Standing or sitting becomes painful
- Your movement feels restricted despite rest
Early diagnosis prevents chronic inflammation and speeds up recovery.
Stability Begins with Awareness
Your lower back and pelvis work together as a single unit. When that connection weakens, pain follows. But awareness and movement are powerful tools for healing.
A well-guided plan of physical therapy for spinal dysfunction can restore balance, reduce inflammation, and help you move confidently again.
Get Rid of Pelvic Pain with Synergy Rehab
If you’ve been struggling with lower back or pelvic pain that doesn’t respond to rest or medication, it may be time to evaluate your sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
At Synergy Rehab, our therapists focus on precision diagnosis and evidence-based sacroiliac joint pain treatment to help you regain control of your movement and life.
Visit Synergy Rehab to schedule an assessment and start your recovery journey today.
FAQs About Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
1. Is SI Joint Pain the Same as Sciatica?
No. While symptoms overlap, sciatica stems from nerve compression, while SI joint pain originates from the joint itself.
2. Can Exercise Worsen Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction?
Incorrect or high-impact exercise can. Gentle strengthening and mobility training under professional supervision are safest.
3. How Long Does It Take to Recover from SI Joint Dysfunction?
With regular physical therapy for spinal dysfunction, most people see improvement within 4–6 weeks.
4. Does SI Joint Dysfunction Go Away on Its Own?
Mild cases may resolve with rest, but chronic instability usually needs targeted therapy.
5. Is Surgery Ever Needed?
Surgery is a last resort when conservative care fails. Most patients recover well with manual therapy and strengthening exercises.
