Sacroilliac Joint Diagnostic Block

WHAT SYMPTOMS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH SI JOINT DYSFUNCTION?
When the sacroiliac joints become irritated, inflamed, arthritic, or injured, you may experience:

• Aching or sharp pain in the lower back

• Pain that worsens with movement of the lower back or hips

• Discomfort when placing strain or weight on the back or hips

• Pain while walking or standing for extended periods

• Stiffness in the lower back or pelvic region

If nerve irritation or compression occurs due to joint dysfunction, additional symptoms may include:

• Pain radiating into the buttocks

• Pain traveling down one or both legs

• Numbness or tingling sensations

• Burning discomfort in the lower extremities

WHAT ARE SI JOINT BLOCKS?
Sacroiliac joint blocks (sometimes called sacroiliac joint injections) use steroids and pain medications to help relieve inflammation and pain in the SI joint. SI joint blocks are guided by X-rays, and they must be performed by an experienced doctor to ensure maximum effect and prevent complications. 
The injections can be repeated as needed up to three times a year to help keep symptoms at bay, and in most cases, injections are followed by physical therapy to help restore the range of motion and promote healing in and around the joint.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING AN SI JOINT PROCEDURE?
 
SI injections can be performed on an outpatient basis, and the entire procedure takes less than half an hour. Sedation can be provided to help keep the patient calm and comfortable, and the injection site is carefully cleansed. A local anesthetic is administered to the site first to numb the area. 
During the procedure, an X-ray is used to accurately guide the needle placement into the joint space, and the location of the needle is verified prior to administering the medication. Once the injection is complete, the injection site will be covered with a small bandage.

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