Sacroiliac joint disease treatment aims to relieve discomfort, improve movement, and support everyday activities. The sacroiliac (SI) joints link the base of the spine to the pelvis, helping distribute body weight when walking or standing. When inflammation or joint instability develops, pain can radiate through the lower back, hips, buttocks, or legs. Treatment often involves a combination of non-surgical methods to reduce strain and surgical options for cases that resist conservative care.
Understanding Sacroiliac Joint Problems
The sacroiliac joints can develop problems due to injury, arthritis, pregnancy, infection, or inflammatory conditions like ankylosing spondylitis. Sometimes the joints move too little, leading to stiffness and discomfort. In other cases, they move too much, causing instability and irritation. SI joint dysfunction can cause pain that intensifies after sitting for long hours, climbing stairs, or standing too much. Since its symptoms often mimic other spinal problems, proper diagnosis is essential to identify the true source of discomfort before any treatment begins.
Medication and Pain Relief Options
Treatment usually starts with medication to ease inflammation and pain. Doctors often recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce swelling around the affected joint and bring quick relief. For those who cannot take NSAIDs, acetaminophen can be used to manage pain safely.
In some cases, muscle relaxants help calm muscle tightness in the lower back and pelvis. Patients with autoimmune conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis or rheumatoid arthritis may benefit from biologic medications that target immune system proteins responsible for inflammation and joint damage.
Physical Therapy and Exercise
Physical therapy remains one of the most reliable approaches for SI joint treatment. Targeted strengthening and stretching exercises help support the joint and relieve pressure in the lower back and pelvis. A physical therapist designs a personalized routine that builds strength in the surrounding muscles and enhances flexibility.
Common movements include glute bridges, squats, and bird dogs to improve core and hip stability. Stretching the hamstrings, quadriceps, and hip muscles helps release tension and restore smoother motion. Proper posture and body alignment also play a key role in avoiding recurring pain and promoting long-term joint health.
Some people benefit from manual therapy, which involves joint manipulation or mobilization performed by a trained therapist or chiropractor. This technique can help restore motion when the joint becomes stiff or misaligned. However, if the joint is hypermobile, gentle strengthening and support techniques are preferred over manipulation.
Heat, Ice, and Lifestyle Adjustments
Home remedies like heat and ice therapy can offer noticeable relief. Ice helps calm swelling during flare-ups, while heat soothes tight muscles and boosts circulation after inflammation decreases. Alternating between heat and cold can enhance recovery and reduce stiffness. Making lifestyle changes also supports healing. Keeping a healthy weight lessens stress on the SI joints, and practicing proper lifting and sitting habits prevents additional strain. Engaging in low-impact activities such as swimming or walking keeps muscles strong and joints flexible without overloading them.
Braces and Support Devices
Supportive devices, like sacroiliac belts or braces, help stabilize the pelvis and limit painful movement. These are particularly useful for individuals with hypermobility or during pregnancy, when hormonal changes loosen the joints. The added stability can make daily activities more comfortable and prevent worsening of symptoms.
Injections and Advanced Non-Surgical Treatments
If pain continues despite basic treatments, injections may be suggested. Corticosteroid shots deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly into or near the SI joint, providing focused relief that can last for weeks or months. These injections can also help verify whether the joint is the main source of pain. Some providers use image-guided techniques to ensure precise placement of the medication.
In certain cases, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is an option, using the patient’s own concentrated platelets to promote healing and naturally reduce inflammation. PRP can support tissue repair and offer longer-lasting improvement. For chronic pain, radiofrequency ablation may be considered, using heat to disrupt nerve signals and extend relief beyond what injections alone provide.
Surgical Treatment for Persistent Pain
When non-surgical treatments do not relieve symptoms, surgery may be considered for sacroiliac joint dysfunction. The most common procedure is SI joint fusion, which stabilizes the joint by permanently connecting the sacrum and ilium using small implants, screws, or rods. Minimally invasive techniques make the incision small, allowing for quicker recovery.
Most patients notice reduced pain and better mobility within a few months. Post-surgery physical therapy helps strengthen nearby muscles and ensures long-term joint stability.
Recovery and Prevention
Recovery from SI joint dysfunction depends on the type of treatment received. After nonsurgical therapies, patients often notice improvement within weeks. Following a consistent exercise program, maintaining proper posture, and avoiding long periods of inactivity help prevent recurrence.
After surgery, the focus shifts to gradual rehabilitation. Light movements are encouraged early to promote healing and prevent stiffness. As recovery progresses, patients transition to strengthening exercises to maintain balance and protect the fused joint.
Preventive care plays a big role in managing this condition long-term. Using ergonomic furniture, adjusting workstation setups, and keeping an active lifestyle reduces pressure on the joints. Practicing stress management and relaxation techniques also helps limit muscle tension around the lower back.
Living Better with Sacroiliac Joint Disease
Successful sacroiliac joint dysfunction treatment requires a patient-consistent approach guided by skilled healthcare providers. While many find relief through non-surgical methods, some may need targeted injections or surgery to regain full comfort and movement. The aim of SI joint treatment focuses on restoring everyday function and overall quality of life.
Collaborating closely with medical professionals helps tailor treatment to the root cause of the problem. With the right mix of therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments, most individuals can resume regular activities and minimize the risk of future flare-ups.