SI Joint Pain
The sacroiliac joint connects the spine to the pelvis. When it becomes inflamed or unstable, it produces lower back, hip, and buttock pain that is often misdiagnosed as a disc problem.
About SI Joint Pain
Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain occurs when the joint connecting your sacrum to your pelvis becomes inflamed, unstable, or misaligned. It can cause sharp lower back pain, deep buttock pain, hip discomfort, and pain that radiates into the upper leg.
Because SI joint pain mimics sciatica and lumbar disc problems, it is often missed. At VeriSpine Joint Centers we use a careful exam combined with diagnostic injections to confirm the SI joint as the pain generator before treatment begins.
Common symptoms
- Sharp lower back, hip, or buttock pain — often one-sided
- Pain that worsens with sitting, standing, or climbing stairs
- Stiffness, burning, or a sensation of uneven leg lengths
- Pain that improves temporarily with rest or position changes
- Discomfort referred into the groin or upper thigh
What causes si joint pain
Accidents, falls, and body trauma (including auto and work injuries)
Pregnancy, postpartum changes, and rapid weight changes
Inflammatory arthritis and autoimmune or connective tissue disorders
Advanced arthritis and degenerative changes in the joint
Repetitive overuse, asymmetric loading, or prior lumbar fusion
How we identify it
Accurate diagnosis comes first — so every treatment is aimed at the true source of pain.
- 01Detailed history and provocative SI joint physical exam
- 02Imaging review (MRI, CT, or X-ray) to rule out other causes
- 03Diagnostic SI joint injection to confirm the pain source
How we treat si joint pain
Diagnostic & therapeutic SI joint injections
01A fluoroscopy-guided injection of anesthetic confirms the SI joint as the pain source; steroid added at the same visit reduces inflammation.
Learn moreRadiofrequency ablation
02Heat-based nerve treatment that interrupts pain signals from the SI joint for extended relief in qualifying patients.
Learn morePRP and regenerative therapy
03Platelet-rich plasma and stem cell options to support healing of the joint capsule and surrounding tissues.
Learn morePhysical therapy and stabilization
04Targeted strengthening of the core, hips, and pelvic stabilizers to restore proper SI mechanics.
Learn moreWhen to see a specialist
Schedule an evaluation if you have one-sided low back, buttock, or hip pain that worsens with sitting or stair climbing, if pain persists after prior back surgery, or if conservative care has not resolved your symptoms.
Book Free ConsultationAll common symptoms
- Sharp lower back, hip, or buttock pain — often one-sided
- Pain that worsens with sitting, standing, or climbing stairs
- Stiffness, burning, or a sensation of uneven leg lengths
- Pain that improves temporarily with rest or position changes
- Discomfort referred into the groin or upper thigh
Get expert care for si joint pain
Request a consultation and our specialists will identify the source of your pain and build a treatment plan around it.