Sacroiliac Joint Injection
Low back and buttock pain that refuses to go away is often coming from the sacroiliac joint, not the spine. A targeted SI joint injection can confirm this and give you real, lasting relief.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the sacroiliac joint?
The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects your sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of your spine) to your iliac bones on either side of your pelvis. You have one on each side. These joints carry the weight of your upper body and absorb shock when you walk or move. When the SI joint becomes inflamed or dysfunctional, it causes deep pain in the lower back, buttock, and sometimes the leg.
How do I know if my pain is from the SI joint?
SI joint pain is often felt in the lower back, one or both buttocks, the hip, or even the back of the thigh. It tends to worsen after sitting for long periods, climbing stairs, or rolling over in bed. It is a very common cause of back pain, yet it is frequently misdiagnosed as lumbar disc or hip joint pain. A diagnostic SI joint injection is the most reliable way to confirm the source.
How does a sacroiliac joint injection help lower back and SI joint pain?
The injection delivers a corticosteroid (anti-inflammatory medicine) combined with a local anaesthetic directly into the SI joint. The steroid reduces inflammation inside the joint; the anaesthetic gives immediate comfort. Together, they can calm the pain significantly and allow you to move and participate in physiotherapy.
How is a sacroiliac joint injection performed?
You lie face-down on the procedure table. The skin over your lower back and buttock area is cleaned and numbed. Under fluoroscopy (live X-ray) guidance, a thin needle is guided precisely into the SI joint. A small amount of contrast dye is injected to confirm the needle is inside the joint, then the steroid and anaesthetic are delivered. The procedure takes about 15–20 minutes.
When will I feel better after a sacroiliac joint injection?
The local anaesthetic works quickly, many patients feel lighter within hours of the procedure. The steroid's full anti-inflammatory effect builds over 3–7 days. If you notice significant relief in the first 30 minutes after the injection, it also confirms the SI joint is the source of your pain.
How long does pain relief from an SI joint injection last?
Relief can last from a few weeks up to several months, depending on the severity of the inflammation. Patients who respond well but find that injections wear off over time are good candidates for Sacroiliac Joint RFA: a longer-lasting option that targets the nerve supply to the joint.
Can I go home the same day?
Yes. This is a day-care procedure. You rest in the clinic for 2–4 hours after the injection, then go home. Please arrange a driver, do not drive on the day of the procedure. Most patients return to their usual routine the next day.
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