Sacroiliitis – Understanding, Treatment & Physiotherapy
Sacroiliitis is the inflammation of one or both of the sacroiliac joints located where the lower spine and pelvis connect. This condition can lead to pain in the buttocks, lower back, and may even radiate down to the legs.
Causes of Sacroiliitis
- Trauma or injury to the sacroiliac joint
- Pregnancy-related stress
- Arthritis (especially ankylosing spondylitis)
- Infections affecting the sacroiliac joint
- Repetitive stress from activities or sports
Symptoms of Sacroiliitis
- Lower back pain and stiffness
- Pain in buttocks, hips, or groin
- Worsened pain after prolonged standing or stair climbing
- Radiating pain down one or both legs
- Reduced range of motion in the lower back
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on physical examination, patient history, and imaging tests such as:
- X-rays
- MRI
- CT scans
- Diagnostic injections to pinpoint the joint causing pain
Differential Diagnosis
Conditions that may mimic sacroiliitis include:
- Herniated disc
- Sciatica
- Hip joint arthritis
- Spinal stenosis
Treatment Options
- NSAIDs to reduce inflammation
- Muscle relaxants for associated spasms
- Joint injections (steroids or anesthetics)
- Radiofrequency ablation in chronic cases
Physiotherapy Management
Physiotherapy is crucial for long-term relief and functional improvement. Techniques may include:
- Core strengthening exercises
- Postural correction
- Stretching of lower back, gluteal and hamstring muscles
- Manual therapy for joint mobilization
- Electrotherapy (e.g., TENS or ultrasound)
Precautions
- Avoid prolonged standing or uneven surfaces
- Do not lift heavy weights without support
- Use lumbar support while sitting
- Follow ergonomic guidelines while working
FAQs – Sacroiliitis
Sacroiliitis is the inflammation of the sacroiliac joints located between the spine and pelvis.
It may be caused by trauma, arthritis, infection, or repetitive strain on the sacroiliac joints.
Pain in the lower back, buttocks, and legs; stiffness; and discomfort while walking or standing.
Through physical exams, imaging tests, and diagnostic injections to isolate joint inflammation.
Yes, it can radiate pain down the legs, similar to sciatica.
With proper treatment and physiotherapy, most patients can manage symptoms effectively.
Yes, guided physiotherapy exercises can reduce pain and improve mobility.
It helps strengthen supporting muscles, reduce pain, and improve joint alignment.
Avoid twisting, heavy lifting, and prolonged standing without guidance from your physiotherapist.
Recovery varies but typically improves within weeks to months with consistent therapy.
Yes, especially if precautions are not taken or underlying conditions remain unmanaged.
NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and muscle relaxants are commonly prescribed.
Yes, sacroiliitis can affect one or both sacroiliac joints.
Yes, sacroiliitis is often a symptom of ankylosing spondylitis and other spondyloarthropathies.
Surgery is rarely required and only considered in chronic, severe cases.