Sacroiliitis

Sacroiliitis refers to inflammation of one or both sacroiliac (SI) joints, which connect the lower spine to the pelvis. This condition can cause lower back pain, buttock pain, and stiffness, often mistaken for sciatica or lumbar spine issues. Sacroiliitis may develop gradually due to arthritis, injury, or autoimmune disease, or it can appear suddenly after trauma or infection. At Covenant Spine and Neurology, our board-certified specialists use advanced diagnostic tools and a multidisciplinary approach to accurately identify the source of pain and provide targeted, effective treatment.

Common Symptoms of Sacroiliitis

  • Pain in the lower back, buttocks, hips, or thighs

  • Pain that worsens after standing, walking, or climbing stairs

  • Stiffness or limited range of motion in the lower back and pelvis

  • Pain that increases at night or after long periods of sitting

  • Possible radiating pain that mimics sciatica

If you experience these symptoms, early diagnosis can help prevent chronic inflammation and long-term joint damage.

Causes and Risk Factors

Sacroiliitis can result from several underlying conditions or lifestyle factors, including:

 

  • Inflammatory arthritis: Ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis

  • Injury or trauma: Falls, car accidents, or repetitive strain

  • Infection: Rarely, bacterial infections can affect the SI joints

  • Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and pelvic stretching can irritate the joints

  • Degenerative conditions: Age-related wear and tear or joint instability

Understanding the root cause helps guide appropriate treatment and long-term management.

Treatment Options for Sacroiliitis

At Covenant Spine and Neurology, treatment is tailored to reduce inflammation, restore movement, and relieve pain.

 

Non-Surgical Treatments

  • Medication Management: Anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or corticosteroid injections

  • Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen the core, stabilize the pelvis, and improve flexibility

  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Weight management, posture correction, and low-impact exercise programs

Advanced Interventional Options

For patients with persistent or severe sacroiliitis pain, minimally invasive procedures may provide lasting relief:

 

  • Image-Guided SI Joint Injections to reduce inflammation and pain

  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) to interrupt pain signals from the affected nerves

  • Sacroiliac Joint Fusion for advanced or recurrent cases

Comprehensive Care for Sacroiliitis at Covenant Spine and Neurology

Our team provides complete care — from diagnosis to rehabilitation — ensuring each patient receives individualized attention and long-term support. We collaborate with primary care physicians and specialists to ensure continuity of care and the best possible outcomes. If sacroiliac joint inflammation is limiting your mobility or quality of life, we’re here to help. Contact Covenant Spine and Neurology today to schedule a consultation and explore advanced treatment options for sacroiliitis.

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

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