How Sacroiliac Joint Instability Could Be the Hidden Culprit?

Sacroiliac joint instability is a common cause of lower back pain that often gets overlooked. Without proper diagnosis, treatments like physical therapy, chiropractic care, or acupuncture may not provide lasting relief. The good news is that with the right diagnosis, sacroiliac joint instability can be effectively treated with simple at-home methods and lifestyle changes.

A Real-Life Example: A 19-Year-Old Dancer

A 19-year-old dancer from New York City experienced ongoing lower back pain after sledding on icy snow and repeatedly landing on her sit bones. The pain started in her sacroiliac joint (where the spine meets the pelvis) and spread to her hip, lower back, and leg. Despite seeing a chiropractor, physical therapist, and acupuncturist, the pain persisted.

After months of temporary relief, her pain kept returning, especially during bending or lifting. She worried that her upcoming trip to Europe would be ruined. Finally, she received a proper diagnosis of sacroiliac joint instability. Within two weeks of following a targeted treatment plan, she felt significantly better and was able to travel comfortably without pain.

What is the Sacroiliac Joint?

The sacroiliac joint connects the sacrum (at the base of your spine) to the ilium on either side of the pelvis. It transfers the load between your upper body and legs and helps maintain stability during movement. Ideally, the sacroiliac joint moves only slightly (1-3 degrees) and is stabilized by ligaments and muscles.

How Does Sacroiliac Joint Instability Happen?

Sacroiliac joint instability often results from trauma, like stepping off a curb or falling on one side, which can injure the ligaments that stabilize the joint. Accidents like slipping on icy sidewalks or roller skating falls can strain these ligaments, leading to instability and pain radiating through the lower back, hips, and legs.

Some people also have naturally loose ligaments, making them more prone to sacroiliac joint issues. Activities that require flexibility, such as yoga, cheerleading, or dance, can increase the risk of sacroiliac ligament sprains.

How to Spot Sacroiliac Joint Instability?

Signs of sacroiliac joint instability include:

• Pain in the lower back, hip, or pelvis (often on one side)
• Sciatic pain that doesn’t respond to typical treatments
• Pain that worsens with prolonged standing, sitting, or walking
• Tenderness in the sacroiliac joint area
• History of trauma, such as falls or sudden movements

If you have these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for a physical examination. Sacroiliac joint issues might not show up on X-rays or MRIs, so a hands-on exam is essential.

How to Treat Sacroiliac Joint Instability

If you’re diagnosed with sacroiliac joint instability, here are some effective treatments:

• Use a Trochanteric Belt: This belt supports the pelvis and helps stabilize the sacroiliac joint. Wear it during the day for up to two weeks to reduce strain on the ligaments.
• Avoid Activities that Stress the Joint: Avoid lunges, certain yoga poses, or using low-seated bikes. Instead, focus on low-impact activities like walking on flat ground.
• Strengthen Pelvic Muscles: Walking for 15 minutes a few times a day helps strengthen muscles that support the sacroiliac joint and improves stability.
• Consider Ligament Supplements: Some supplements for ligaments may help ligaments heal faster. While not necessary, they can speed up recovery.
• Chiropractic Care: For sacroiliac joint instability, low-force chiropractic adjustments may stabilize the joint without over-stressing it.

Moving Forward

Sacroiliac joint instability is a common but often overlooked cause of lower back pain. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can quickly relieve your pain and return to daily activities without invasive treatments or medications. If you think you have sacroiliac joint instability, consult a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms and treatment options. With the right care, you can regain stability and live pain-free.