Your sacroiliac (SI) joint is the area where your low back connects with the hip area. As we walk, sit, run, and move through our day, the weight of our body puts pressure on that area. With this much pressure and the joint’s limited mobility, it may begin to fuse with age. Some people will also develop arthritis in the sacroiliac joint due to wear and tear.
Q & A
1. What is an SI Joint Injection?
Using only a local anesthetic and a fluoroscopic device as a guide, a very small needle will be inserted into the desired area. Contrast dye tests for proper placement of the needle prior to injecting the steroids, as well as appropriate distribution of the solution within the area. Once proper placement has been assured, the physician administers the steroids.
2. When will I start to feel pain relief?
You will start to have improvement in back and buttock pain in 48 hours.
3. What are the potential side effects?
Risks related to this procedure tend to be relatively minor and occur infrequently. Bruising and/or soreness at injection site may occur but is transient.
4. What if I have tried injections but they don’t last long enough?
Radiofrequency ablation of the SI joint can be done to give long lasting pain relief. Pain relief typically lasts for 12-18 months.