What Are Sacroiliac Joint Injections and How Do They Work?
Sacroiliac joint injections are minimally invasive procedures designed to diagnose and treat pain originating from the sacroiliac (SI) joints, which connect the base of the spine to the pelvis. These joints are responsible for supporting the upper body’s weight and absorbing the shock between the spine and lower limbs. When the SI joints become inflamed or irritated, they can cause significant pain in the lower back, hips, and legs. The injections typically contain a combination of a local anesthetic to provide immediate pain relief and a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation over time.
The procedure is performed under image guidance, such as fluoroscopy (a type of X-ray), to ensure accurate placement of the needle into the joint. Once the medication is injected, the local anesthetic usually provides rapid pain relief, while the steroid component works over a longer period to reduce inflammation. These injections can serve both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. If the injection alleviates the pain, it helps confirm that the SI joint is the source of the discomfort. Over time, these injections can provide lasting relief by reducing inflammation and irritation in the joint.
