Sacroiliac Joint Injections

The sacroiliac joints connect the coccyx, commonly known as the tailbone to the pelvis, or hip bone. We have two sacroiliac joints, both right and left. (How to Prevent Back Pain, 2008) They are often referred to as “SI” joints. These joints are not moveable like other joints in the body such as the knee or hip. If degeneration starts in these joints of if an injury occurs to the SI joint(s), severe low back pain can occur—usually at either side of the upper buttock region. (How to Prevent Back Pain, 2008) Treatment is available for sacroiliac joint pain and can include the injection of numbing or steroid-type medications directly to the SI joint.

Sacroiliac joint injections are performed under CT (a special X-Ray) guidance which allows the doctor to see the exact location he is placing the needle in. The skin in the area of the injection is cleaned thoroughly. The doctor numbs a small area of skin with a numbing medication—this could sting for a few seconds. A very small needle is inserted through the skin into the joint using CT guidance. A small amount of anesthetic and cortisone-type medication (steroid) is then slowly injected into the joint. The injection only takes a few minutes, but the entire procedure may a little longer. Some patients will not obtain immediate relief or may feel numb or slightly weak after the injection. Patients should avoid driving or doing strenuous activity on the day of the injection. Ice packs should be used on the injection area for up to 72 hours as needed—on 20 minutes, off 20 minutes. Always use a towel or cloth between the cold source and your skin. Keep a record or log of your pain level following your injection. This will help the doctor to know what works best for you. (Matt, 2006)

Complications are possible with any invasive medical procedure, but are rare with epidural steroid injections. Some complications that could occur include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Allergic reaction to the medication
• Pain at the injection site or worsening pain
• *Very rare—spinal cord damage or paralysis

Please talk to the doctor about any concerns or questions you have. Always notify your doctor if you are on a blood thinner before having a facet joint, or any type of spinal injection.

Bibliography

How to Prevent Back Pain. (2008, March 11). Retrieved March 11, 2008, from Medline Plus : http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/tutorials/howtopreventbackpain/htm/index.htm