The sacroiliac joint is located at the back of the pelvis and is a common cause of back pain. It has been reported that as high as 15% of all pain experienced in the lower back region is due to sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction. SIJ dysfunction refers to abnormal function (i.e. hypo or hypermobility) occurring at the joint, which in turn overloads the structures in and around the joint leading to pain and inflammation. SIJ dysfunction can contribute to or be the sole cause of lower back, buttock, hip and/or groin pain.

1. an acute traumatic accident such landing on the joint from a height
2. gradual overload due biomechanical mal-alignments and excessive stress being placed through the joint.
3. hormonal changes which can affect the level of laxity or stability in the joint .ie during pregnancy.

Symptoms usually present as a dull ache in the lower back region on one side although pain can present on both sides. Aggravating activities may include bending forward, sitting, transition from sitting to standing, and raising the knee up towards the chest.

Treatment of SIJ related pain must focus on the entire lumbo-pelvic-hip complex addressing any restrictions in joint or soft tissue movement and any muscle imbalances due to weakness. Our Chartered Physiotherapists are very experienced in managing lower back and SIJ pain patients and may use a combination of joint mobilistation techniques, strengthening and stretching exercises, myofascial release techniques, dry needling, and Clinical Pilates exercise to address causative factors.