What Is Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

The joints are made of cartilage, a substance that allows for movement and flexibility in the human body at key connecting points. Joints are located throughout the body, including the elbows, knees, ankles, fingers, wrists, jaw, and hips. A condition called sacroiliac joint dysfunction limits movement and mobility, requiring a doctor's attention. Dr. Ali Nairizi and his team at Reno Tahoe Pain Associates in Reno, NV can teach you more about sacroiliac joint dysfunction and provide the necessary treatments for this disorder.

About Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

The sacroiliac joints connect the pelvic bone to the spine. The sacroiliac joint helps stabilize and support the back when standing, walking, or lifting things. When this joint, located between the hip and spine, becomes inflamed due to injury, disease, or aging, it is called sacroiliitis or sacroiliac joint dysfunction. The joints' ligaments, muscles, and cartilage wear down, causing pain when you move or sit down. Issues with the synovial fluid in the joints may also cause the dysfunction.

Causes and Symptoms of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction can be diagnosed by your Reno, NV, doctor with a physical exam and X-rays of the pelvic region and back. It is most commonly caused by:

• An arthritic condition, like osteoarthritis.
• Trauma to the back or pelvis (usually from a major fall).
• Muscle spasms or strain.
• Pregnancy, due to the additional pressure and weight on the pelvis and lower back.
• Lifting heavy objects over an extended period without proper technique or back support.

Treatments for Joint Problems

Your Reno, NV, doctor can treat the pain of this condition with a sacroiliac joint injection. The doctor injects a corticosteroid solution near the base of the spine into the joint to decrease inflammation. Other treatment options include therapeutic exercise (daily stretching), braces or back supports, and oral pain medication.

Manage Your Pain and Find Lasting Solutions

When you’re experiencing severe joint pain, it’s a difficult issue to ignore because you use your joints to walk, bend, kneel, type, and even talk. Get advice about how sacroiliac joint dysfunction can be treated when you visit Dr. Ali Nairizi at Reno Tahoe Pain Associates in Reno, NV. Call (775) 384-1127 today to set an appointment.