Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is a common cause of low back pain, affecting up to 1 million Americans each year. At his practice in Dallas and Grapevine, Texas, double board-certified pain management specialist Mohammed Shaikh, MD, and his team specialize in diagnosing and treating sacroiliac joint dysfunction. After an in-office exam, they can make personalized care recommendations that reduce pain and restore mobility. Call today to receive treatment for sacroiliac joint dysfunction, or make your appointment online.

What is sacroiliac joint dysfunction?

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is a painful inflammatory condition affecting one or both sacroiliac joints, which connect your lower spine and pelvis. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction can cause chronic low back pain, buttock stiffness, and mobility problems without intervention and treatment.

What are the symptoms of sacroiliac joint dysfunction?

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction symptoms include:

• Low back pain
• Stiffness in the lower back and buttocks
• Pain that’s worse after sitting or standing for long periods
• Pain that’s worse when running or climbing stairs

As the condition worsens, you may have trouble sleeping through the night or doing routine tasks.

Should I see a specialist about sacroiliac joint dysfunction?

Make an appointment with Dr. Shaikh if you have lower back or buttocks pain that doesn’t improve with at-home treatments, such as rest, ice, and activity modification. That’s particularly true if your symptoms affect your ability to bend, lift, or sit for extended periods. 

How is sacroiliac joint dysfunction diagnosed?

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is one of the most difficult musculoskeletal problems to diagnose. Dr. Shaikh and his team use the latest imaging techniques, including X-ray fluoroscopy and diagnostic injections, to accurately identify the underlying cause of lower back and buttock pain. 

After confirming your diagnosis, Dr. Shaikh develops a personalized treatment plan to relieve pain and encourage your body’s natural healing process.

How is sacroiliac joint dysfunction treated?

Dr. Shaikh and his team treat sacroiliac joint dysfunction using conservative and minimally invasive procedures. They might recommend:

• Physical therapy
• Stretches and strengthening exercises
• Activity modification
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Chiropractic care
• Sacroiliac joint injections
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Spinal cord stimulation
• Ice and heat

If your symptoms continue or worsen, even after conservative treatment, Dr. Shaikh might recommend arthrodesis (surgical immobilization or fusion). Arthrodesis is a minimally invasive procedure that fuses your sacroiliac joints to nearby bones, stabilizing them and relieving pain.

The ultimate goal is to help you return to the activities you love.

What can I expect after sacroiliac joint dysfunction treatment?

Most people with sacroiliac joint dysfunction improve within a few weeks or months, but it may take longer. If you have osteoarthritis or another chronic condition, your symptoms may come and go with flare-ups. 

Call the office near you today to explore treatments for sacroiliac joint dysfunction, or make your appointment online.