Sacroiliac Joint Injections
Sacroiliac joint injections are precision procedures designed to address pain originating from the sacroiliac joints, which connect the lower spine to the pelvis. Pain in this region can result from inflammation, degeneration, or injury to the joint, often mimicking low back or hip pain. By injecting a mixture of corticosteroid and local anesthetic directly into the SI joint under fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance, physicians can both confirm the joint as the pain source and provide significant relief, helping patients regain function and participate more effectively in therapy.
The procedure is performed under sterile conditions using fluoroscopy or ultrasound for precise needle placement. After local anesthesia numbs the area, a fine needle is inserted into the sacroiliac joint, and a mixture of corticosteroid and anesthetic is injected to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. The injection typically takes 10–15 minutes and is done on an outpatient basis, with some patients requiring a series for optimal results. Sacroiliac joint injections are indicated for chronic lower back, buttock, or pelvic pain caused by sacroiliitis, degenerative changes, trauma, or postural imbalance. Benefits include rapid pain relief, improved mobility, decreased inflammation, and the ability to participate more effectively in rehabilitation, while also confirming the SI joint as the source of pain.
Sacroiliac joint injections are safe, minimally invasive, and effective interventions for SI joint-related pain. By combining accurate imaging guidance with targeted delivery of anti-inflammatory medication, patients can experience significant relief, enhanced function, and better quality of life, all while minimizing the need for more invasive procedures.