Sacroiliac Joint Injections
If you’re struggling with persistent lower back or buttock pain, it might be coming from your sacroiliac (SI) joint. While not often talked about, SI joint dysfunction is a common but frequently overlooked cause of discomfort. One effective way to manage this type of pain is through sacroiliac joint injections.
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What is the Sacroiliac Joint?
The sacroiliac joints are located at the base of the spine where the sacrum (the triangular bone at the bottom of the spine) meets the iliac bones of the pelvis. These joints are responsible for transferring weight between your upper body and legs, absorbing shock and providing stability.
When these joints become inflamed or don’t move properly, a condition known as SI joint dysfunction—they can cause pain in the lower back, buttocks, hips, or even radiating down the leg.
What Is a Sacroiliac Joint Injection?
A sacroiliac joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure that delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into the joint. It typically involves a combination of a corticosteroid (to reduce inflammation) and a local anaesthetic (to provide immediate pain relief).
There are two primary purposes for SI joint injections:
- Diagnostic: To confirm that the SI joint is the source of your pain.
- Therapeutic: To reduce inflammation and provide relief from chronic discomfort.
Who Might Benefit from This Injection?
SI joint injections are most recommended for people who experience:
- Lower back or buttock pain that worsens with standing or walking
- Discomfort while sitting for long periods or getting up from a seated position
- Pain after an injury, pregnancy, or surgery
- No significant improvement from physiotherapy, oral medication, or lifestyle changes
If your symptoms align with SI joint dysfunction and conservative treatments haven’t helped, this procedure may be the next step.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The injection is typically performed under image guidance (fluoroscopy or ultrasound) to ensure precise placement. Here’s a general overview:
- Preparation: You’ll lie on your stomach, and the skin around the injection site will be cleaned and numbed with plenty of local anesthetic.
- Guidance: Using imaging, the consultant will guide a tiny needle (0.7mm diameter) into the joint.
- Injection: A mixture of corticosteroid and anesthetic is injected.
- Completion: The procedure usually takes less than 20 minutes, and you’ll be monitored briefly before going home.
Sedation is almost never necessary, though in some cases it can be offered if you’re particularly anxious.
What Happens After the Injection?
- Immediate Relief: You may feel instant relief from the anaesthetic, which typically wears off after a few hours.
- Delayed Relief: The steroid can take 2–3 days (sometimes up to a week) to reduce inflammation and provide longer-term relief.
- Activity: You’ll be advised to avoid strenuous activities for 24–48 hours but can resume more normal activities shortly after.
Some people may need a series of injections depending on their condition and how they respond to treatment.
How Effective Are SI Joint Injections?
Many patients experience significant pain relief following their injection, sometimes lasting several months. For others, it may be part of a wider pain management plan, including physiotherapy, exercise, or further interventions.
If the injection helps reduce pain, it also helps confirm that the SI joint is the primary source of your discomfort. That knowledge is valuable for planning further treatment.
When Should You See a Spinal Consultant?
You should consider seeing a spinal consultant if:
- Your lower back or buttock pain has lasted more than a few weeks
- Over-the-counter pain relief isn’t helping
- You’re experiencing radiating pain down your leg
- Your pain worsens with specific movements or positions
A consultant can carry out a thorough assessment, possibly including imaging, to determine the cause of your pain and whether an SI joint injection is appropriate for you.
Expert SI Joint Care at SpineArt
At SpineArt, we specialise in diagnosing and treating complex spinal conditions with personalised, evidence-based care. Our spinal consultant, Mr Dan Fagan, has extensive experience in managing sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction and performing targeted injections safely and effectively.
Mr Fagan offers private consultations at the following locations:
Or telemedicine consultations on line.
If you’re dealing with persistent back or pelvic pain, don’t wait. A precise diagnosis and the right treatment can help you return to a more active, comfortable life.
Get in touch today to book a consultation with Dan Fagan at SpineArt.
What is the cost of the procedure?
SpineArt fees due at the point of booking
Sacro-iliac injection
A sacroiliac joint injection is used to diagnose or treat lower back pain that comes from your sacroiliac joint.
£1,896*
*Prices correct as of July 2022. Please note these are fees due to SpineArt, hospital fees will be charged separately.
Want to talk to someone or book an appointment?
If your still unsure and have any questions, contact our receptionist Bev on 07539 330360 to arrange a consultation with Dan Fagan or email us at secretary@spineart.org.
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