SI joint pain is felt in the body’s lower back and buttocks and is caused by damage or injury to the spinal-hip joint. Sacroiliac (SI) pain might be mistaken for a herniated disc or a hip ailment. An accurate diagnosis is required to pinpoint the source of the pain.

For treatment, physical therapy, stretching exercises, pain medication, and joint injections are the best solutions for SI joint pain. Check this blog to have vast knowledge about SI joint pain and how massage can help.

What are SI joints: Learning Its Anatomy & Physiology

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What are SI joints? The human body has two sacroiliac joints (SIJ). They are found where the ilium (on the pelvic bone) meets the upper lateral region of the sacrum (the bottom portion of the spine). SI joints are L-shaped joints that move as a whole unit. The sacral surface of the joint is covered by hyaline cartilage, whereas the ilial surface is covered by fibrocartilage. While no muscles link directly between the sacrum and the ilium, the piriformis and gluteus maximus bridge the joint and connect the sacrum to the femur. The SIJ’s stability is aided by its form and strong intrinsic and extrinsic ligaments.

So what are SI joints during infancy and toddler stages? The SIJs are gliding synovial joints with flat articulating surfaces that develop early in life, throughout infancy and toddlerhood. They grow into a more angular surface with fibrous joints as the body matures and physical stress applies to them. Walking upright causes this tension because the torso’s weight passes from the top section of the body to the spine, pelvis, and lower extremities.

And what are SI joints’ jobs? The joints move very little, generally less than four degrees of rotation and two millimeters. The SIJ’s primary role is weight bearing and spinal function in the central or axial body. It is also an essential aspect of the walking movement. 

Check out more about what SI joints are with Massage Rx. We are known as one of the go-to experts for this condition and as the trusted provider of:

SI Joint Dysfunction: Symptoms & Causes to Look Out for

SI joint dysfunction begins in the lower back and buttocks and may spread to the lower hip, groin, or upper thigh. While discomfort is often one-sided, it can occur on both sides. Patients may also feel numbness or tingling in their legs and weakness. 

Some people have trouble traveling in a car or standing, sitting, or walking for an extended period. Pain can be exacerbated by transitional movements such as sitting to standing, standing on one leg, or ascending stairs.

When the ligaments around the SI joint become too lax or too tight, it can cause discomfort. And SI joint dysfunction can be caused by numerous conditions, including the following:

  • Osteoarthritis – Years of joint tension might eventually wear down the cartilage and cause osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis, associated with aging, can damage the SI joint, spine, and other joints.
  • Gout – Gout, also known as gouty arthritis, can occur if your body has elevated uric acid levels. Joint discomfort, which can be severe, is a symptom of this condition. Although gout typically always affects the big toe first, it can affect any joint, including the SI joint.
  • Injury – Trauma, such as traumas from falls and automobile accidents, can harm SI joints.
  • Pregnancy – Relaxin, a hormone produced during pregnancy, increases the elasticity of the SI joints. And this allows the pelvis to expand to facilitate the delivery of a baby. It also reduces the stability of the joints.

Why is massage beneficial for SI joint dysfunction?

SI joint dysfunction is not something that can be deliberately avoided. It can be caused by normal aging, pregnancy, natural misalignment, or an inflammatory condition. Physical therapy can assist to relieve pain by stretching and performing activities that promote joint stability.

However, one of the most reliable alternatives people incorporate in this condition is massage. Massage therapy can also assist in alleviating the discomfort caused by SIJ. It is very beneficial in relieving pain in the muscles around the joint. Cranial-sacral treatment and polarity therapy are two energetic therapies that can assist realign the body and alleviate tension on the SIJ. Swedish massage techniques might help to relax muscles and increase circulation in the region. Positional release is a mild manual therapy that may assist in reducing the pain and suffering associated with SIJ dysfunction by addressing musculoskeletal abnormalities.

To know more, contact us here at Massage Rx. We also offer Sports Massage, Prenatal Massage, and Couple Massage. Book an appointment now!