Sacroiliac/Hip Pain
Understanding Sacroiliac and Hip Pain
Sacroiliac (SI) joint and hip pain are common sources of discomfort that can significantly impact your daily life and mobility. The sacroiliac joint connects the sacrum (the triangular bone at the bottom of the spine) to the iliac bones (part of the pelvis). This joint helps transfer weight and movement between your upper body and legs. When the SI joint becomes irritated or dysfunctional, it can lead to pain in the lower back, buttocks, and hips. Similarly, hip pain can stem from issues in the hip joint itself or be referred from the SI joint or surrounding muscles and ligaments.
Causes of Sacroiliac and Hip Pain
Several factors can contribute to SI joint and hip pain, including:
- Trauma or Injury – Falls, car accidents, or direct trauma to the pelvis can cause misalignment or damage to the SI joint or hip.
- Arthritis – Osteoarthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions can cause degeneration and stiffness in the SI joint and hip.
- Pregnancy – Hormonal changes and the added weight of pregnancy can loosen the ligaments around the SI joint, leading to instability and pain.
- Leg Length Discrepancy – Differences in leg length can place uneven stress on the SI joint and hip, leading to discomfort.
- Muscle Imbalance or Weakness – Weakness or tightness in the muscles supporting the pelvis and hip can cause strain and misalignment.
- Poor Posture or Movement Patterns – Repetitive stress, poor body mechanics, or improper posture can overload the SI joint and hip, leading to inflammation and pain.
Symptoms of Sacroiliac and Hip Pain
The symptoms of SI joint and hip pain can vary depending on the underlying cause but may include:
- Aching or sharp pain in the lower back, buttocks, or hip
- Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting, standing, or walking
- Difficulty with certain movements, such as climbing stairs or bending over
- Radiating pain into the thigh or groin
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the hip or pelvis
Diagnosing Sacroiliac and Hip Pain
At Ascent Pain, our experienced pain management specialists take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing sacroiliac and hip pain. Diagnosis typically includes:
- Medical History Review – Understanding your symptoms, activity level, and past injuries.
- Physical Examination – Evaluating your range of motion, muscle strength, and pain response.
- Imaging Studies – X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be used to identify joint damage, inflammation, or structural issues.
- Diagnostic Injections – A targeted injection of anesthetic into the SI joint or hip can help confirm the source of pain.
Treatments for Sacroiliac and Hip Pain
At Ascent Pain, we offer a range of treatments designed to relieve pain, restore function, and improve your quality of life. Treatment options include:
- SI Joint Injections – Corticosteroid or anesthetic injections to reduce inflammation and block pain signals.
- Radiofrequency Denervation – A minimally invasive procedure that uses heat energy to disrupt pain signals from the SI joint.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy – Using your body’s own healing factors to reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair.
- Joint Mobilization and Manipulation – Manual therapy to improve joint function, reduce pain, and increase range of motion.
- Take the First Step Toward Relief
If you’re struggling with sacroiliac or hip pain, the team at Ascent Pain is here to help. Our specialists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Don’t let pain limit your life — contact Ascent Pain today to schedule a consultation and start your journey to relief.
Call Ascent Pain at (504) 249-7576 or fill out our online form to request an appointment and take the first step toward lasting pain relief.