Sacro-Illiac Joint(SIJ)  Dysfunction

Sacro-iliac Joint Dysfunction (SJD) is the clinical term for a collective group of signs and symptoms of pain in the lower back and sacral region. The sacroiliac joints are the joints that connect the wedge-shaped Sacrum to the two pelvic bones. The Sacro-iliac joints’ main function is to be able to transmit forces from the lower limbs to the spine and upper body and vice versa. Oftentimes, the Sacroiliac joints can become a source of pain. The SI Joints are the cause of pain in up to 30% of low back pain cases. 

Sign and symptoms of SIJ Dysfunction

• pain in the lower back, 

• near the buttock region,

• Referral pain into the groin or hip. 

Cause of SIJ Dysfunction

There are various reasons for SIJ dysfunction. The first reason can be when the Sacroiliac ligaments have been damaged or torn (through trauma or degeneration), then it can cause inflammation of the joint and be the cause of the pain.
Also, another reason for SIJ dysfunction can be excessive movement of the joint. This usually would involve trauma, such as; landing directly onto your back or buttocks or motor vehicle accidents.
 

Physiotherapy management of SIJ Dysfunction

At York-med physiotherapy, our registered physiotherapists would determine the underlying causes of your SIJD through a comprehensive assessment. While a physical assessment of knee, hip, back and other structures can determine the best course of action in treating this condition. The treatment will involve manual therapy and mobilization of your SIJ, electrotherapy to reduce your pain, as well as to correct any abnormal walking pattern, and stretching/strengthening muscles to reduce muscle imbalance, weakness and tightness