Sacroiliac Joint Syndrome

Sacroiliac joint syndrome is an inflammation in the joint that connects the sacrum (triangular shaped bone at the lower spine) to the left and right illiac bones (two large bones that make up the pelvis), which allow the spine to connect to the pelvis.

The most common symptom of SI joint syndrome is pain. Patients usually feel the pain in the back of the hips, but can also have pain in the groin area, or in the thighs.

Massage therapists will often ask specific questions about the pain, and may even request you perform specific movements to isolate the source of your pain.

The cartilage layer within the joint actually covers the bone, which helps cushion the bone.

This amazing cushioning helps us move easily in various directions, giving us the freedom to run, jump, and even walk with ease and comfort. Without it, almost every movement would be painful.

 

Causes of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

• Damage or degeneration of the cartilage - causing the bones to rub together
• Too much or too little movement
  
• Pregnancy - caused by ligaments that relax in the are, preparing for birth
• Low back or lumbar spin disorders
• Gout
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Ankylosing Spondylitis - Inflammatory Arthritis that always affects the SI joint

Common Treatments for SI Joint Pain

• Massage Therapy - light massage of the area is often recommended
• Peppermint, Rosemary,  or Eucalyptus essential oil
• Steroid injections
  
• Physical Therapy - where you will learn stretches, what to do when it happens
  

Massage Therapy for SI Pain

Massage therapists will often examine the tissue around the SI joint to see if there is a swelling, inflammation, or tightness. It the tissue is hypertonic, with tension or increased tone, stretching to release the tightness would be appropriate. Shortened tissue, which is often chronic dysfunction, can be worsened by stretching.

The muscles and ligaments of the hip will also be massaged, and often stretched to provide better access for the therapist.

Myofascial Release techniques may be used to test flexibility and detect restrictions in the hip, as well as the joint.

This DVD, Advanced Myofascial Techniques for Massage Therapy, Physical Therapy and Sports Massage: Pelvis Hip and Sacrum teaches how to massage trigger points in the low back due to pain from Sacroiliac Joint disorders, lower back muscle strain, Gluteal or Buttock Pain, and Sciatica. Includes step-by-step detailed instruction on nerve mobilization and release procedures for all related trigger points.

This is a short clip of that DVD:

By learning more about Sacroiliac Joint Syndrome, you not only learn the common causes, and treatments, but how to effectively treat sacroiliac joint dysfunction, to prevent re-occurrence or worsening of the symptoms.

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