Lower back pain is one of the most common complaints we diagnose and treat as chiropractors. A cause of low back pain that can be easily missed is sacroiliitis! This month we’d like to show how chiropractic care can help to alleviate pain and restore function and mobility to those diagnosed with sacroiliitis.
What is Sacroiliitis?
Sacroiliitis refers to inflammation of one or both sacroiliac joints also known as SI joints. These sacroiliac joints connect the lower part of your spine (sacrum) to your pelvis. Anytime you take a step, lift your leg, extend, or move your legs, you utilize your sacroiliac joints.
Causes
There are a variety of factors that can increase a person’s risk for developing sacroiliitis, including:
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Infection
- Osteoarthritis
- Pregnancy
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Traumatic injury
Symptoms
The pain associated with sacroiliitis stems from inflammation and irritation of the sacroiliac joint. Symptoms include:
- Pain in the lower back, hips, buttocks, legs, and feet
- Pain that worsens have after periods of standing or sitting
- Pain felt with weight-bearing activities
- Stiffness in the hips and lower back
In cases of infection, fever may also be a symptom of sacroiliitis.
Can We Help?
As chiropractors, we pride ourselves on utilizing your body’s healing processes to relieve pain that stems from joint inflammation, dysfunction, and misalignment. During your consultation, we will evaluate your symptoms, conduct a physical exam, and perform any necessary tests to determine which treatment options will be ideal for your condition and lifestyle.
We specialize in a variety of non-surgical treatment methods for sacroiliitis, including:
- Chiropractic Adjustment- If a misalignment is the cause of your condition, manual or machine-assisted chiropractic adjustments can help to realign joints causing pressure and pain within your body.
- Heat and Ice Therapy- Using heating packs can help stimulate strong circulation in the area which will supply the joint with much-needed healing and pain relief nutrients. Ice or cold packs will reduce swelling and inflammation to alleviate pain.
- Rest- Rest allows your body time to heal from activities that may worsen your condition while also reducing inflammation.
- Therapeutic Massage- Massage is a direct method of relaxing tight muscles which also increases blood flow to the area and assists in muscle and soft tissue healing and recovery.
- Physical Therapy- We can recommend exercises and stretches that will strengthen your muscles and joints, keep your body flexible, and restore your range of motion while reducing swelling and pain.
During your consultation, we will conduct a variety of tests to determine your diagnosis and work with you to tailor your treatment to your unique needs and goals. If you believe you are suffering from sacroiliitis or would like to schedule an appointment, contact Anthem Chiropractic today.