Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Injection

What is SI Joint Pain?

The sacroiliac joint is located below the lumbar spine and above the tailbone (coccyx). This joint connects the sacrum (triangle bone at the bottom of the spine) with the pelvis. There are two sacroiliac joints on the right and left side of the spine. This joint is a strong structure with limited motion and acts as a shock absorber. Patients who report symptoms of deep pain in the lower back accompanied with shooting leg pain may have sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

Overview of the Sacroiliac Joint Injection

A sacroiliac joint injection is used to diagnose and treat SI joint pain. This is an in-office procedure. Here is what to expect during a SI joint injection:

• You will lie down on the table.
• The injection area is cleaned and numbed before the injection.
• Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, your physician will determine the appropriate path for the needle.
• Your doctor inserts a thin needle into the appropriate region and enters the SI joint using a syringe.
• A contrast dye is injected into the joint to ensure proper needle placement through the fluoroscopy.
• Then, your physician injects an anti-inflammatory medication (corticosteroid) in the SI joint.

The corticosteroid usually starts to work two days to two weeks after the injection. The pain relief varies for each individual, from no relief to long-term pain relief.

OrthoNC offers comprehensive spine expertise

OrthoNC’s spine specialists diagnose spine problems and design custom treatment plans built on a conservative, non-surgical approach. Most patients find relief through treatments including guided injections, specialized physical therapy, exercise, activity modification, and medication. When conservative care does not relieve symptoms, our highly skilled surgeon offers proven, evidence-based surgical options. Together with you, we will determine the right course of action.

Start your journey to a healthy spine. Find your spine expert, make an appointment online, or call us at (919) 562-9410 to schedule a spine consultation.