Sacro-iliac joint inflammation

The sacroiliac joint is a very large, minimally mobile joint that connects the sacrum to the ilium. Its function is not related to movement, as with most joints, but rather to transferring loads from the spine to the lower limbs. Like other joints in the body, the sacroiliac joint can become inflamed. The pain caused by this inflammation is often located in the lower lumbar region, usually on either the right or left side, and may radiate toward the groin area or the lower limbs.

The diagnosis of sacroiliitis is primarily clinical and is made after excluding other conditions that can cause symptoms similar to those of sacroiliac inflammation (hip osteoarthritis, lumbar disc herniation, lumbar spinal canal stenosis). Among radiological examinations, the most useful for diagnosis is lumbar and pelvic MRI.

Treatment of sacroiliac inflammation involves several steps. Initially, treatment with analgesic and anti-inflammatory medications is administered, which can significantly improve the condition, especially in the early stages of inflammation.

Combining medication with targeted physiotherapy treatment is essential. This treatment is important not only for reducing the joint inflammation but also for preventing future recurrences.

If inflammation persists or it is necessary to distinguish sacroiliac inflammation from other issues, targeted injections of corticosteroids and local anesthetic may be performed.

Dr. Robert and Dr. Bonasia perform these treatments at their medical offices in Manno, Chiasso, Bellinzona, and Locarno, as well as at the Ars Medica Clinic.

In more resistant cases, a small radiofrequency ablation procedure of the sacroiliac joint may be considered.