Lower back pain does not always start in the lumbar spine. In some cases, discomfort begins at the sacroiliac joint, where the pelvis connects to the base of the spine. When this joint becomes a persistent source of pain, SI joint fusion may be considered after more conservative treatments have not provided enough relief.
At Freedom Spine & Pain Center, Rajesh K. Sharma, MD, brings training in Internal Medicine, Anesthesiology, and Interventional Pain Management, while Vrunda H. Pandya, MD, completed advanced fellowship training in Regional Anesthesia at New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Hospital for Special Surgery. Their backgrounds support a careful evaluation of lower back pain to determine whether the SI joint or another structure is contributing to symptoms.
How SI Joint Pain Can Present
SI joint pain often develops near one side of the lower back or upper buttock. Because the discomfort can resemble other spinal or hip conditions, identifying the source may require a focused examination and diagnostic testing.
Possible symptoms include:
- Pain near the lower back, buttock, or hip
- Discomfort that worsens with standing or walking
- Pain when climbing stairs or rising from a seated position
- Increased discomfort after sitting for long periods
- Pain that may extend into the thigh
The pattern can vary, so treatment should be based on the suspected source rather than symptoms alone.
When Joint Fusion May Be Considered
Joint fusion is generally not the first treatment used for SI joint pain. Initial care may include activity modification, physical therapy, medications, injections, or other minimally invasive approaches.
If symptoms remain significant and testing indicates that the SI joint is the primary pain generator, fusion may become an option. The procedure stabilizes the joint and reduces painful movement by encouraging the bones to heal together.
What Evaluation May Involve
A pain management assessment typically considers symptom location, movements that aggravate pain, treatment history, and physical examination findings. Imaging may also be used to evaluate nearby structures.
Diagnostic SI joint injections can sometimes help confirm whether the joint is responsible for the pain by temporarily numbing the area and tracking symptom relief.
Consider SI Joint Fusion for Lower Back Pain in Boerne, Kerrville, and San Antonio, TX
Persistent lower back pain can be difficult to treat when the source is not immediately obvious. Freedom Spine & Pain Center evaluates whether the SI joint or another structure may be contributing to ongoing discomfort and whether joint fusion is appropriate.
To discuss persistent symptoms and schedule a consultation, call 210-920-8945.