Sacroiliitis: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Q&A

The most common symptoms of sacroiliitis all include varying degrees of pain, specifically within the lower back and hips, making it sometimes difficult to differentiate from other causes of back pain. Sacroiliac pain tends to worsen with prolonged sitting or standing and has often been described as radiating down the leg. Many patients suffering from sacroiliac pain will experience increased difficulty walking due to the discomfort, pain, and stiffness that result from the condition. To diagnose the condition, physicians will take the experienced symptoms of the patient into account during a consultation during which the medical history of the patient is discussed. During this appointment, a physician will also likely perform a physical examination as well as other diagnostic tests such as x-rays, MRI scans, or blood tests to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.

Sacroiliitis will most frequently occur due to an injury or incurring trauma to the sacroiliac joints, with common examples including a serious fall or accident. It can also develop due to the presence of an inflammatory condition such as psoriatic arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis. It is also possible for sacroiliitis to be caused by an infection or by physical changes that occur during pregnancy. Those who have had a sacroiliac joint injury in the past are at an increased risk of injuring the joint again in the future. Since there are several potential causes and risk factors, as well as many other conditions that can display similar symptoms, patients who are at an increased risk for sacroiliitis or who are displaying the common symptoms must be encouraged to schedule an appointment with a qualified healthcare provider to prevent any further pain or suffering and to prevent the condition from worsening.

If left untreated or not sufficiently treated, sacroiliitis can lead to a range of complications, such as chronic pain, increased stiffness of the sacroiliac joint, and decreased mobility. While it is possible for sacroiliitis to gradually improve with rest and medication, without proper medical care to assess the cause of the condition, it is likely to continue to cause pain that worsens with time and can lead to ongoing problems until the condition is addressed. Severe cases of sacroiliitis can cause structural damage to the sacroiliac joint, resulting in increased instability or even fusing of the joint.

Depending on the cause of the condition, there are several treatment options available for sacroiliac, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which can come with complications that will be outlined in detail by the providing physician. Other treatment options include physical therapy and assistive devices such as crutches or canes to relieve stress or pressure on the affected joints. In many cases, only at-home remedies are required to allow the sacroiliac joint to heal properly, such as the regular application of hot or cold compresses to the joint to reduce inflammation or swelling, as well as sufficient rest for the joint. Most of these treatment options come with a few complications, but anything of concern regarding leaving the condition untreated or undergoing treatment can be addressed by a qualified healthcare provider.

If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort that is indicative of sacroiliitis, such as persistent discomfort or pain within the sacroiliac joint and surrounding area, you are encouraged to see your healthcare provider, especially if the pain or discomfort is interfering with your daily activities or quality of life. Further consultation with your healthcare provider is recommended if you have any questions or concerns regarding sacroiliitis or the recommended course of treatment. Although there are some at-home treatments for sacroiliitis, these will not be sufficient treatment for all cases, and visiting a healthcare provider will ensure that you receive a proper evaluation, an accurate diagnosis, and guidance for your treatment options that are determined based on your medical history and specific symptoms. 
 
At Modern Pain Management, we understand the profound impact that sacroiliitis can have on your life, and we’re here to provide compassionate care and effective treatment options to help you find relief. With Dr. George Atallah, D.O., and our dedicated staff by your side, you can feel confident about your well-being. Take control of your pain and regain your quality of life. Schedule a consultation with us today and start your journey towards a brighter, pain-free future. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Houston TX and Sugar Land TX. We serve patients from Houston TX, Sugar Land TX, Pearland TX, Jersey Village TX, Missouri City TX, Stafford TX, and Richmond TX.