Aligned Integrated Health
SI Joint Pain: Symptoms, Causes and Care
Pain at the Base of the Spine
SI joint pain comes from the sacroiliac joints, the two joints where the base of the spine meets the pelvis. When these joints move too much, too little or unevenly, the result is often called SI joint dysfunction, and it can cause pain in the low back, buttock and hip. Sacroiliac joint pain is one of the patterns we see as part of hip and pelvis pain treatment in Scottsdale.
This page explains where SI joint pain is felt, the symptoms to watch for, what causes it, and how Dr. Dan approaches it at Aligned Integrated Health.
- A hands-on exam of the pelvis, low back and hips
- Gentle care with no cracking or popping
- Exercises to help the pelvis stay stable
Where Is SI Joint Pain Felt?
SI joint pain is usually felt on one side of the low back, near the dimple just above the buttock. It can spread into the buttock, the back of the thigh or the groin, which is why it is often mistaken for a disc problem or sciatica.
Key Features:
- One-Sided Low Back Pain: A deep ache over the back of the pelvis, often worse on one side.
- Pain With Transitions: Standing up, getting out of a car or rolling over in bed can bring it on.
- Pain With Stairs or Standing on One Leg: Movements that load one side of the pelvis tend to flare it.
SI Joint Pain Symptoms and Causes
Here is how SI joint dysfunction usually shows up and what tends to cause it.
SI Joint Pain Symptoms
Common SI joint pain symptoms include an ache over the back of the pelvis, pain in the buttock, stiffness after sitting, pain when climbing stairs, and discomfort lying on the affected side. Some people describe a feeling that the pelvis is out of place or unstable.
What Causes SI Joint Dysfunction?
Falls onto the buttock, car accidents, a leg length difference, uneven walking patterns, repetitive one-sided activities, pregnancy and the period after it, and arthritis can all contribute. Weak or unbalanced hip and core muscles can leave the joint without the support it needs.
SI Joint Pain, Sciatica or a Disc?
These problems can feel similar. SI joint pain usually stays above the knee and centers on the back of the pelvis, while nerve pain from the spine more often travels below the knee with numbness or tingling. Our pages on sciatica and pinched nerves in the lower back cover those patterns. An exam is the best way to tell the difference.
How a Chiropractor for SI Joint Pain Can Help
Dr. Dan starts with a full exam of the pelvis, low back and hips. Care may include gentle Pro Adjuster adjustments to restore balanced motion in the pelvis, chiropractic with rehabilitation to strengthen the muscles that stabilize it, and massage therapy for tight surrounding muscles. We also look at how you sit, stand and sleep, since small habits can keep irritating the joint.
When to See a Doctor
See a medical doctor promptly for pain after a significant fall or accident, fever with back or pelvic pain, numbness or weakness in the legs that is getting worse, or loss of bladder or bowel control. These need medical care first.
Related Conditions We Treat in Scottsdale
Frequently Asked Questions
Will going to a chiropractor help with SI joint pain?
Often, yes. SI joint pain is closely tied to how the pelvis moves, which chiropractic care and stabilizing exercises address. Dr. Dan will tell you if another provider should see you first.
What does a misaligned SI joint feel like?
Many people describe a one-sided ache at the back of the pelvis, pain when standing up or climbing stairs, and a feeling that the pelvis is uneven.
What is the best sleeping position for SI joint pain?
Many people are more comfortable on their back with a pillow under the knees, or on their side with a pillow between the knees to keep the pelvis level.
Do you treat SI joint pain in Scottsdale?
Yes. Walk-ins are welcome. Call (480) 661-1977.
Get Help for SI Joint Pain in Scottsdale, AZ
Aligned Integrated Health is at 10752 North 89th Place, Suite C130 in Scottsdale. Dr. Daniel J. Gerwig, D.C. has been practicing since 2001 and sees patients here himself. Most insurances are accepted and walk-ins are welcome.
New Patient Special. Includes the consultation, exam, report of findings and X-rays. See the current offer. Not valid for use with federally sponsored programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid.