SI Joint/Tailbone Pain

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction (also known as SIJD or SI Joint Pain) is a condition in which the sacroiliac joint in the pelvis moves either too much or too little, resulting in pain and often instability of the pelvic girdle.

The sacroiliac joint connects to many ligaments and muscles in the lower back, hip and pelvic floor. In most cases, SI joint dysfunction results in a loss of stability, strength and/or support. With these musculoskeletal imbalances and possibly inflammation, the pain worsens and the cycle continues.

Symptoms of Sacroiliac joint dysfunction

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction presents as one or more of a number of symptoms, which can make it hard to diagnose the true issue. For example, people with sacroiliac joint dysfunction sometimes feel lower back pain, hip pain or buttock pain. That pain can be acute and sharp or dull. It might be there all the time, come and go during daily activities or only happen when making certain movements.

People with sacroiliac joint dysfunction often find certain positions or activities very uncomfortable. For example, sitting could be painful for some, while for others sitting alleviates the pain but standing worsens it. Walking and stair climbing are often painful for people with SIJD.

Treatment 

The treatment for sacroiliac joint dysfunction depends on whether there is too much or too little movement in the pelvis, as well as any other issues with your strength, flexibility or range of motion.

Treatment may include:

• Strengthening of the hip and ‘core’ muscles (abdominals and back muscles) that surround the pelvis
• Manual therapy to create more joint movement, decrease pain and inflammation or improve range of motion of joints
• Stretching tight muscles
• Addressing pelvic floor muscle issues
• Postural and other lifestyle changes to minimize pain

Working with a professional physical therapist who understands sacroiliac joint dysfunction is essential for proper healing. For starters, a physical therapist will be able to identify whether the problem is caused by too little or too much motion of the joint – and then prescribe exercises appropriate to stabilize, stretch and strengthen the joint.

Pain Management

At her North Carolina pelvis health practice, Dr. Grace works to empower patients to take control over their pain and feel confident in their ability to manage it on their own. In order to achieve this, a treatment plan especially designed for your needs and situation is important. This plan is carefully designed by Dr. Grace after an initial consultation and examination. Treatment can take anywhere from two to 10 visits, depending on the severity of the problem and how well you respond to treatment.

Dr. Grace is committed to providing you with the best patient education resources, latest treatment technologies and professional caring service so you can feel at ease while addressing the issues affecting your life.