Sacroiliac joint injection

The sacroiliac joint is a large joint, which connects the sacrum to the ilium in the pelvis. A sacroiliac joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat pain in the sacroiliac joint. During the procedure, a small amount of local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication is injected directly into the joint to reduce pain and inflammation. This can provide long-lasting relief and improve mobility and function for patients with sacroiliac joint pain. Lighthouse Spine Center uses precise X-ray guidance to ensure the accurate placement of the needle and effective treatment. Our goal is to provide our patients with safe and effective relief from sacroiliac joint pain and improve the quality of their life. 

What is a sacroiliac joint injection?

A sacroiliac joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat pain in the sacroiliac joint, which is located in the lower back where the sacrum and ilium bones meet. During the procedure, a mixture of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication is injected directly into the joint to reduce inflammation and pain. The local anesthetic provides immediate pain relief, while the anti-inflammatory medication works to reduce inflammation and provide longer-lasting pain relief. Sacroiliac joint injections are commonly used to treat conditions such as sacroiliitis, which is inflammation of the sacroiliac joint, as well as other forms of lower back and hip pain that originate from the sacroiliac joint. The procedure can be helpful in diagnosing the specific cause of the pain and can also be used as a therapeutic treatment to relieve pain and improve function. The duration of pain relief from sacroiliac joint injections can vary, but in general, the effects can last from several weeks to several months. Repeat injections may be necessary to maintain pain relief over a longer period of time. The duration of pain relief can depend on the underlying cause of the pain, the severity of the condition, and the individual patient's response to the medication. 

Procedure Process 

Sacroiliac joint injections are performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient can go home the same day and the procedure typically takes around 30 minutes. The patient will lie on their stomach and local anesthesia is used to numb the skin around the injection site. The healthcare provider will then use fluoroscopy to guide a needle into the sacroiliac joint. Once the needle is in place, a mixture of local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication is injected into the joint. The anti-inflammatory medication works to reduce inflammation and provide longer-lasting pain relief. The patient may feel some discomfort during the injection, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated. After the procedure, the patient will be monitored for a short time before being discharged. Overall, sacroiliac joint injections are considered a safe and effective treatment for lower back and hip pain caused by sacroiliac joint dysfunction. 

Recovery Process

After a sacroiliac joint injection, patients may experience some soreness or discomfort at the injection site, as well as a feeling of numbness or weakness in the legs for a few hours. Patients may be advised to rest for the remainder of the day, avoiding any strenuous activity or heavy lifting. However, patients can typically return to normal activities the next day. It is normal to experience some improvement in pain immediately after the injection due to the local anesthetic, but it may take a few days for the anti-inflammatory medication to take effect and provide longer-lasting pain relief. Mild bruising or swelling at the injection site is also common and should resolve within a few days. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on how to manage any pain or discomfort and when it is safe to resume normal activities.

Benefits of sacroiliac joint injections

Sacroiliac joint injections offer several benefits for patients suffering from chronic lower back pain. They can provide significant and long-lasting pain relief, typically for several weeks to several months. These injections can also improve mobility and function, allowing patients to engage in physical therapy or other activities that were previously too painful. Additionally, sacroiliac joint injections are a minimally invasive procedure, which means they offer a lower risk of complications and a faster recovery time compared to more invasive treatments. In some cases, sacroiliac joint injections may even reduce the need for more aggressive or invasive treatments, providing an effective alternative for managing chronic lower back pain. And lastly, sacroiliac joint injections can be the necessary first step in pinpointing the source of the pain prior to offering more invasive treatments such as sacroiliac joint fusion procedures.

Consultation and Preparation 

The consultation process for getting a sacroiliac joint injection at Lighthouse Spine Center typically involves an initial evaluation with our physicians to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any prior treatments or medications. During the consultation, your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order diagnostic tests like X-rays or MRIs to confirm the diagnosis and ensure that a sacroiliac joint injection is the most appropriate treatment option for you. Once it has been determined that a sacroiliac joint injection is appropriate, the provider will provide detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. This may include avoiding certain medications, fasting before the procedure, and arranging for a friend or family member to drive you home after the injection.

Conclusion 

If you are experiencing chronic lower back pain, it may be time to consider injections as a treatment option. At Lighthouse Spine Center, our expert medical staff can help you find relief from your symptoms. Don't let chronic pain hold you back any longer - take the first step towards a pain-free life by booking an appointment with us today.