Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain

Overview

Sacroiliac joint pain is felt around the dimples at the base of the spine and can refer into the buttock and groin. It is common in pregnancy and after asymmetric loading, and is usually managed well with load management and targeted strengthening.

Symptoms

• Pain over the back of the pelvis, often one-sided
• Discomfort with single-leg loading or rolling in bed
• Pain referring into the buttock or groin
• Aggravation with prolonged standing or stairs

Causes

• Pregnancy-related hormonal and load changes
• Asymmetric loading or a fall onto the buttock
• Reduced control of the hip and trunk muscles

Treatment

• Load management and activity modification
• Pelvic and hip strengthening
• Support belts in some cases
• Manual therapy as an adjunct