Pain of sacroiliac origin

Lumbosacral pain of sacroiliac origin is too often overlooked, although its prevalence is estimated to be 15% of chronic low back pain.

It is caused by dysfunction-inflammation of one or both sacroiliac joints that are located below the lumbar spine above the coccyx, and extend between the sacrum and the pelvis which are joined by strong ligaments.

Dysfunction of this joint causes a dull or oppressive pain, usually unilateral, that is relieved by sitting on the non-painful side and worsens when standing or climbing stairs. The pain is localized in the lower lumbar spine, in the buttocks and may extend to the legs, simulating sciatica, although generally without going below the knee. The causes of sacroiliac dysfunction are multiple including trauma, arthritis, pregnancy and infections.

The treatment of this type of ailment may initially be conservative (analgesia, rehabilitation and exercises). However, in cases where conservative treatment fails to resolve the pain, your specialist may indicate an ultrasound-guided infiltration or block.

The ultrasound-guided block of the sacroiliac joint is performed in a simple manner with the patient in prone position, guiding the needle into the joint with the ultrasound probe, and depositing the drug there.

The efficacy of sacroiliac joint blockade with anesthetic and corticosteroids has been demonstrated with good evidence and is recommended after failure of conservative treatment (drugs, physiotherapy).

From the Rehabilitation Medicine and Complementary Therapies Unit at Barcelona Spine Institute we offer our patients the most appropriate personalized treatment. Do not hesitate to contact your specialist and request an appointment.