Treating Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction describes the pain and discomfort that occurs from improper (too frequent or not frequent enough) use of the sacroiliac joint. The sacroiliac joint is attached to both sides of the spinal column and is located in the lower back. Its primary function is to assist the body in weight redistribution from the upper body to the legs upon standing. When the joint is over or underused, it can become inflamed, causing individuals to experience a sharp pain in the lower back. Pain can also migrate from the back to the thighs, upper back, and buttocks. Fortunately, there are several options for treatment.

Supports And Braces

Overuse of the sacroiliac joint can cause it to become too loose, leading to slipping and irritation of the tissue surrounding the joint. A loose sacroiliac joint is considered hypermobile. Individuals with a hypermobile sacroiliac joint may find relief from a variety of supports and braces, designed to keep the loose joint in place, leading to decreased irritation, inflammation, and pain. A pelvic brace is a commonly used stabilizer for the sacroiliac joint. Pelvic braces, which are made of breathable, stretchy material, are typically four to eight inches in size and are worn tightly around the waist to limit pelvic mobility. When worn properly, a pelvic brace can help realign the pelvis and promote healing and reduce stress on the sacroiliac joint.

Keep reading to get familiar with the next method of treating sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

Pain Medication

Individuals experiencing mild to moderate pain may find relief in over the counter medications. Anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen, and pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, can be used to reduce pain-inducing inflammation. Individuals with more severe symptoms may need to speak with a doctor for stronger medications to combat symptoms. These may include narcotic pain medication and muscle relaxers. Narcotics reduce pain by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain to block signals of pain to the brain, while muscle relaxers interact with the brain to reduce muscle stiffness. Although muscle relaxers and narcotics can quickly and efficiently reduce pain caused by sacroiliac joint dysfunction, they are not recommended as the first course of treatment nor should they be used for long periods, as the potential for addiction is high.

Learn about how compresses can help treat sacroiliac joint dysfunction now.