Are you experiencing discomfort in your lower back and hips? It could be a condition called sacroiliac joint dysfunction. In this blog, we will dive deep into understanding sacroiliac joint dysfunction, including its causes and symptoms. We will also discuss how it is diagnosed and when to seek medical advice.
If you’re looking for non-invasive treatment options, we’ve got you covered! We’ll also provide tips on how to prevent sacroiliac joint dysfunction through lifestyle changes and an exercise regimen. So let’s get started on your path to effective healing from sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
Understanding Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
Causes of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction occurs when there is abnormal movement in the sacroiliac joints, connecting the sacrum to the pelvis. Common causes of this dysfunction include injury, pregnancy, fractures, ankylosing spondylitis, spinal cord injuries, childbirth, arthritis, and muscle imbalances.
Symptoms of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
Symptoms of sacroiliac joint dysfunction may manifest as lower back pain, swelling, numbness, hip pain, buttock pain, and pain in the ligaments. In addition, individuals may experience leg pain, muscle spasm, and difficulty walking or standing for prolonged periods, and stiffness in the lower back or hips.
Diagnosing Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
Accurate diagnosis of sacroiliac joint dysfunction is crucial for treating it. Medical professionals use diagnostic tests like x-rays, CT scans, and MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging tests) to determine the condition. A physical examination helps identify tenderness and range of motion issues.
Once diagnosed, individualized treatment plans can be created, incorporating conservative measures such as physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and specific exercises. In severe cases, surgical interventions may be recommended.
When to Seek Medical Advice?
If you’re experiencing persistent pain, muscle strain, back strain, lumbar strain, or discomfort in your sacroiliac joint for long periods, it’s time to seek medical advice. Don’t ignore worsening symptoms or those that interfere with your daily activities. If conservative treatments don’t provide relief, consult a healthcare professional. Seek immediate medical attention for severe pain or loss of bladder/bowel control.
Conservative Care Treatments for Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
Physiotherapy and Exercises
Physiotherapy is a common and recommended treatment for sacroiliac joint dysfunction. A skilled physiotherapist can create a personalized exercise program to strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint and enhance stability. Exercises such as pelvic tilts, bridges, and clamshells are often included in the program.
Stretching exercises and yoga can also be beneficial, especially for tight muscles that contribute to the dysfunction. It’s crucial to work with a qualified physiotherapist to ensure correct techniques and progressive exercises for optimal results.
If you are based in London, One Body LDN is an excellent physiotherapy clinic known for its expertise in treating sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Their team of skilled physiotherapists can assess your condition and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Apart from physiotherapy, they also offer a range of conservative care treatments that can help alleviate your symptoms. These may include anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and pain, as well as specific exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint.
Anti-Inflammatory Medication and Pain Management
Anti-inflammatory medication, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help reduce pain and inflammation in the sacroiliac joint. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like acetaminophen and ibuprofen also provide temporary relief from low back pain. For more severe pain, stronger prescription medications may be necessary.
Other conservative treatments include heat or ice compression therapy, weight loss, chiropractic adjustments, and using supportive braces or belts to stabilise the joint.
Is Surgery Necessary for Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction?
Surgery is typically a last resort for sacroiliac joint dysfunction. The surgical options include fusion or stabilisation procedures. Minimally invasive procedures like sacroiliac joint fusion or radiofrequency ablation can help stabilize the joint and alleviate pain.
It’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment approach. Remember, non-surgical treatments such as physiotherapy, medication, and injections are often effective in relieving symptoms. Always explore all available options before considering surgery.
How to Prevent Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction?
Maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent excess stress on the sacroiliac joint. Regular exercise, especially strengthening exercises for the core posture, can stabilise the joint. Avoiding activities involving heavy lifting or repetitive motions that strain the joint is also beneficial.
Moreover, using proper body mechanics when carrying or lifting heavy objects reduces the risk of injury. Supportive footwear and proper ergonomics at work and during daily activities also contribute to preventing sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common symptoms of sacroiliac joint dysfunction?
Common signs of sacroiliac joint dysfunction include lower back, hip, and buttock pain. Pain may radiate down the leg, resembling sciatica. Activities like walking and standing can worsen the pain. Other symptoms may include muscle tightness, stiffness, and difficulty in performing certain movements.
How is sacroiliac joint dysfunction diagnosed?
Diagnosing sacroiliac joint dysfunction involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. Your healthcare provider may ask about symptoms, perform specific movements, and order X-rays or MRI scans. Diagnostic injections like sacroiliac joint blocks can also confirm the diagnosis. Consult a professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Where can I find physiotherapy near me?
You can easily find physiotherapy clinics near your location by searching online directories or using search engines with location-specific keywords. Additionally, you can ask for recommendations from your primary care physician or get referrals from friends, family, or colleagues who have received physiotherapy treatment before.
Where can I find sports massage near me?
To find sports massage near you, check online directories or use search engines. Websites like Yelp, Google Maps, and SpaFinder can help locate sports massage therapists. Local fitness centers, wellness clinics, and chiropractic offices also offer these services. For sports massage in London, One Body LDN is a highly recommended option. They have experienced therapists specializing in sports massage therapy to help you recover and enhance your athletic performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sacroiliac joint dysfunction can cause significant discomfort and limit your mobility. Fortunately, there are effective conservative care treatments available, such as physiotherapy, exercises, anti-inflammatory medication, and pain management techniques. Surgery is usually considered a last resort for severe cases.
To prevent sacroiliac joint dysfunction from occurring or recurring, making certain lifestyle changes and following an exercise regimen can be beneficial. Take proactive steps towards maintaining a healthy spine and preventing future issues. If you’re experiencing any symptoms or want to learn more about treatment options, consult with a healthcare professional.
If you are searching “private physiotherapy near me” / “Sports massage near me” / “Deep tissue massage near me” / “pain treatment near me”, have private health insurance physiotherapy cover and are looking for the best private healthcare in London – One Body LDN is your answer.
We are approved by ALL major private health insurance physiotherapy companies:
Axa PPP | Axa PPP International | Bupa Physiotherapy | Bupa International | Vitality (formerly Pru Health) | Vitality Health International | Nuffield Health | Aviva | Cigna | Cigna International | WPA | Aetna | Aetna International | Allianz | Allianz Worldwide Care | Allianz International | Axa Private Health Insurance | Healix | Healix Global | Health Shield | Simplyhealth | Paycare | BHSF | The PHC | Saga | The Exeter | Freedom Healthcare | Axa Corporate Health Insurance
Our approved physiotherapists are ready to take care of you!
Contact us today to learn more!
