Sacroiliac Joint Injections

The sacroiliac joints are located where the base of the spine meets the pelvis. Although small, these joints play a critical role in absorbing shock and stabilizing the body during movement. When the SI joints become inflamed or misaligned, they can cause significant discomfort in the lower back, hips, buttocks, and even the legs.

What Are Sacroiliac Joint Injections?

Sacroiliac joint injections are both a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure. By injecting a combination of anesthetic and corticosteroid medication directly into the SI joint, physicians can confirm whether the joint is the true source of pain while providing targeted relief from inflammation.

Conditions That May Benefit from SI Joint Injections

SI joint injections are often recommended for patients experiencing:

  • Arthritis of the SI joint leading to stiffness and inflammation

  • Trauma or injury, such as falls or car accidents, that disrupt the joint

  • Pregnancy-related changes where increased mobility of the pelvic joints can cause instability and pain

  • Spinal alignment issues that increase stress on the sacroiliac joints

  • Chronic lower back or pelvic pain that has not improved with conservative treatment

How the Procedure Works

At Covenant Spine and Neurology, SI joint injections are performed under image guidance (fluoroscopy or ultrasound) to ensure precise placement of the medication. The procedure typically involves:

 

  1. Preparation and Positioning: The patient lies comfortably while the injection site is sterilized.

  2. Local Anesthetic: A numbing agent is applied to minimize discomfort.

  3. Guided Injection: A thin needle is guided into the sacroiliac joint using imaging.

  4. Medication Delivery: A mix of corticosteroid (to reduce inflammation) and anesthetic (to provide immediate relief) is injected into the joint.

Most patients tolerate the procedure well and can return home the same day.

Benefits of Sacroiliac Joint Injections

Patients who receive SI joint injections often experience:

 

  • Immediate diagnostic clarity to confirm the SI joint as the pain source

  • Reduced pain and inflammation in the lower back, hips, and pelvis

  • Improved mobility and ability to perform daily activities

  • Enhanced participation in physical therapy, supporting long-term recovery

  • Minimally invasive relief without the need for surgery

What to Expect After the Injection

Relief may occur quickly due to the anesthetic, while corticosteroid effects typically build over the next few days. Results can last for several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the condition and patient lifestyle factors. Follow-up injections may be recommended as part of a comprehensive pain management plan.

When to Consider SI Joint Injections

If you suffer from persistent lower back, hip, or pelvic pain that has not responded to rest, physical therapy, or medications, SI joint injections may be the next step. They are particularly useful when pain interferes with mobility, sleep, or overall quality of life.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

Don’t let sacroiliac joint pain limit your life. At Covenant Spine and Neurology, our team provides advanced, image-guided SI joint injections to accurately diagnose your pain and deliver meaningful relief. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if sacroiliac joint injections are the right solution for you. Take control of your pain and move forward with confidence.

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For more information or to schedule an appointment call us at 336-761-4020.

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