Introduction
Sacroiliac joint pain can be a challenging condition to manage, but there are various non-surgical approaches that can provide relief and improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from this discomfort. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore 10 non-surgical ways to treat sacroiliac joint pain, with a focus on evidence-based interventions and practices.
Image-Guided Sacroiliac Joint Interventions
Intra-articular Steroid Injections
Fluoroscopy guided Sacroiliac Joint Injection of Corticosteroid + Local AnestheticIntra-articular steroid injections involve the direct injection of corticosteroids into the sacroiliac joint, aiming to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. This procedure is often guided by fluoroscopy or ultrasound to ensure accurate placement of the medication. Studies, such as the one published in the “American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation,” have shown the effectiveness of intra-articular steroid injections in providing short to medium-term relief for sacroiliac joint pain (Erdine et al., 2004).
Intra-articular Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
Fluoroscopy guided Intrarticular Sacroiliac Joint Injection with Platelet Rich PlasmaIntra-articular PRP injections involve the use of the patient’s own platelets to promote healing and reduce inflammation in the sacroiliac joint. A study in the “Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research” found that PRP injections can provide significant pain relief and functional improvement in patients with sacroiliac joint dysfunction (Centeno et al., 2016).
Intra-articular Stem Cell Injection
Dr Swagatesh Bastia at Alleviate Pain Clinic with a stem cell Extract.Intra-articular stem cell injections involve the use of mesenchymal stem cells to promote tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation in the sacroiliac joint. While research in this area is ongoing, early studies, such as the one published in Stem Cells Translational Medicine, suggest that stem cell therapy may be a promising avenue for treating sacroiliac joint dysfunction (Pettine et al., 2016).
Prolotherapy of Sacroiliac Ligaments
Needle Location used for injection of the sacroiiac ligaments. Trigger point of ligaments: (IL) Iliolumbar; (LS) Lumbosacral-supra and interspinus; (A,B,C,D,) Posterior sacroiliac; (SS) Sacroapinus; (ST) Sacrotuberus;(SC) Sacrococcygeal;(H) Hip-Articular; (SN) Sciatic nerve (from G.S. Hackett, Ligament and Tendon Relaxation. Charles C. Thomas Co., 1958)
Prolotherapy involves the injection of a solution, often containing dextrose, into the ligaments surrounding the sacroiliac joint. This promotes inflammation, stimulating the body’s natural healing response and strengthening the ligaments over time. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine demonstrated the efficacy of prolotherapy in reducing pain and disability in patients with sacroiliac joint dysfunction (Hauser et al., 2016).
Radiofrequency Denervation of Sacroiliac Joint
Radiofrequency denervation, also known as radiofrequency ablation, involves using heat to disrupt the nerve fibers transmitting pain signals from the sacroiliac joint. Research, including a study in the Journal of Pain Research, suggests that radiofrequency denervation can provide significant and long-lasting pain relief in patients with sacroiliac joint pain (Patel et al., 2013).
Interferential Therapy (IFT)
Radiofrequency denervation, also known as radiofrequency ablation, involves using heat to disrupt the nerve fibers transmitting pain signals from the sacroiliac joint. Research, including a study in the “Journal of Pain Research,” suggests that radiofrequency denervation can provide significant and long-lasting pain relief in patients with sacroiliac joint pain (Patel et al., 2013).
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
TENS delivers low-voltage electrical currents through electrodes placed on the skin, disrupting pain signals. A study in the “European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine” reported that TENS can be a valuable adjunct in the treatment of chronic sacroiliac joint pain (Atalay et al., 2019).
Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to generate heat and promote healing in the affected area. It can enhance blood circulation and reduce inflammation in the sacroiliac joint. A study in “Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation” demonstrated the efficacy of ultrasound therapy in reducing pain and improving function in patients with sacroiliac joint dysfunction (Coskun Benlidayi et al., 2018).
Home Exercises and Stretches for Sacroiliac Joint Pain
Home exercises play a crucial role in maintaining the gains achieved through medical interventions and physical therapy. Some effective exercises and stretches include:
Pelvic Tilts
Lie on your back with knees bent, gently tilt your pelvis upward, hold for a few seconds, and return to the starting position. This helps strengthen the core and stabilize the sacroiliac joint.
Child’s Pose
Start on hands and knees, sit back on your heels while reaching your arms forward. This stretch can help relieve tension in the lower back and sacroiliac joint.
Cat-Cow Stretch
On hands and knees, arch your back up like a cat and then dip it down, lifting your head and tailbone. This dynamic stretch improves flexibility and mobility in the spine.
Conclusion
A multidisciplinary approach that combines image-guided interventions, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications is often effective in managing sacroiliac joint pain. At Alleviate Pain Clinic, our experience in treating thousands of patients underscores the importance of individualized care and a comprehensive treatment plan for optimal outcomes. If you are experiencing sacroiliac joint pain, consult with our specialists to explore the most suitable non-surgical options tailored to your needs.
