Sacroiliitis Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
Know all about the sacroilitis, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options. Learn about the prevention and self-care tips for sacroiliitis.
Introduction
Sacroiliitis is a condition that affects the sacroiliac joints, the joints connecting the lower spine (sacrum) to the pelvis (ilium). Inflammation in these joints can cause significant pain and discomfort, often mistaken for other back-related issues. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent lower back pain, understanding sacroiliitis can help in seeking the right treatment.
This article will guide you through the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for sacroiliitis in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
Consult an Orthopaedic for Personalised Advice
The most common symptom of sacroiliitis is pain in the lower back, buttocks, or thighs. The pain may vary in intensity and can be felt on one or both sides of the body.
Other symptoms include:
- Stiffness in the lower back, especially in the morning or after sitting for long periods.
- Pain that worsens with movement, such as climbing stairs, standing up from a seated position, or running.
- Radiating pain that may extend to the hips, groin, or legs.
- Discomfort while sleeping, particularly when lying on the affected side.
- Inflammation and tenderness around the sacroiliac joints.
Since sacroiliitis shares symptoms with other conditions like sciatica or herniated discs, proper diagnosis is essential.
Causes of Sacroiliitis
Sacroiliitis can develop due to various reasons, including:
1. Inflammatory Conditions – Autoimmune diseases like ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can trigger joint inflammation.
2. Injury or Trauma – A fall, car accident, or heavy lifting can strain or damage the sacroiliac joints.
3. Pregnancy – Hormonal changes and increased weight can loosen the ligaments around the sacroiliac joints, leading to inflammation.
4. Infection – Rarely, bacterial infections can spread to the sacroiliac joints, causing pain and swelling.
5. Osteoarthritis – Wear and tear over time can lead to joint degeneration.
Understanding the underlying cause helps in determining the best treatment approach.
Diagnosis of Sacroiliitis
Since sacroiliitis symptoms overlap with other back problems, doctors use multiple methods for an accurate diagnosis:
1. Physical Examination – The doctor may press on the sacroiliac joints or ask you to move in certain ways to check for pain.
2. Imaging Tests –
- X-rays – To detect joint damage.
- MRI or CT scans – To identify inflammation or structural issues.
3. Blood Tests – To check for signs of infection or autoimmune conditions.
4. Diagnostic Injections – A numbing medication injected into the joint can confirm if it’s the source of pain.
If you suspect sacroiliitis, consulting a specialist is crucial for proper diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Sacroiliitis
Treatment focuses on reducing pain, inflammation, and improving mobility. Depending on the severity, options include:
1. Medications
- Pain Relievers – Over-the-counter NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) help reduce pain and swelling.
- Muscle Relaxants – For severe muscle spasms.
- Steroid Injections – Directly into the joint to reduce inflammation.
- DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs) – For autoimmune-related sacroiliitis.
2. Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can teach exercises to:
- Strengthen core and pelvic muscles.
- Improve posture and flexibility.
- Reduce stress on the sacroiliac joints.
3. Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- Rest & Activity Modification – Avoid activities that worsen pain.
- Heat/Ice Therapy – Ice packs reduce swelling; heat relaxes stiff muscles.
- Supportive Devices – A sacroiliac belt can stabilise the joint.
4. Surgical Options (Rare Cases)
If conservative treatments fail, procedures like joint fusion may be considered.
Prevention and Self-Care Tips
While not all cases of sacroiliitis can be prevented, these steps can help manage symptoms:
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress.
- Practice good posture while sitting and standing.
- Engage in low-impact exercises (swimming, yoga, walking).
- Use proper lifting techniques to avoid strain.
- Stay active to prevent stiffness.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience:
- Persistent lower back pain lasting more than a few weeks.
- Pain that disrupts daily activities or sleep.
- Signs of infection (fever, redness, swelling).
Consulting a specialist early can prevent complications.
Final Thoughts
Sacroiliitis can be painful, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, most people find relief. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options, you can take proactive steps toward better back health.
Consult an Orthopaedic for Personalised Advice
Consult an Orthopaedic for Personalised Advice
Dr. Manoj Dinkar
Orthopaedician
15 Years • MBBS, Dip (Orthopaedics)
New Delhi
THE DOCTORS NESST, New Delhi
Dr. Mohammed Tanzeem P
Orthopaedician
5 Years • MBBS, MS Orthopaedics
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Sushruth J
Orthopaedician
5 Years • MBBS, MS (ORTHOPEDICS),Fellowship in Arthroplasty,FRGUHS – Spine surgery,FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Vishruta A V
Orthopaedician
5 Years • MBBS MS Orthopaedics
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Pradeep Lucas
Orthopaedician
7 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Orthopaedics, Fellowship in DFSI
Bengaluru
Revival Multispeciality Clinic, Bengaluru
Consult an Orthopaedic for Personalised Advice
Dr. Manoj Dinkar
Orthopaedician
15 Years • MBBS, Dip (Orthopaedics)
New Delhi
THE DOCTORS NESST, New Delhi
Dr. Mohammed Tanzeem P
Orthopaedician
5 Years • MBBS, MS Orthopaedics
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Sushruth J
Orthopaedician
5 Years • MBBS, MS (ORTHOPEDICS),Fellowship in Arthroplasty,FRGUHS – Spine surgery,FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Vishruta A V
Orthopaedician
5 Years • MBBS MS Orthopaedics
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Pradeep Lucas
Orthopaedician
7 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Orthopaedics, Fellowship in DFSI
Bengaluru
Revival Multispeciality Clinic, Bengaluru