The SI joint, or sacroiliac joint, is located at the base of the spine where the sacrum meets the iliac bones in the pelvis. SI joint pain is a common condition that affects many people, especially those who are middle-aged or have a history of lower back pain. Here are some common causes of SI joint pain:
Arthritis: Arthritis occurs when the cartilage in your joints begins to deteriorate. When it occurs in the SI joint, it can cause inflammation and pain.
Pregnancy: During pregnancy, hormone levels change to prepare the body for childbirth. This can cause the ligaments in the pelvis to become more relaxed, which can lead to SI joint pain. The extra weight of the growing baby can also place additional pressure on the joint.
Trauma: An injury or trauma to the pelvis or lower back can cause the ligaments that support the SI joint to become stretched or torn, resulting in SI joint pain.
Degenerative Disc Disease: Degenerative disc disease occurs when the discs between the spinal vertebrae begin to break down. This can lead to instability in the SI joint and cause pain.
Sciatica: Sciatica is a condition in which the sciatic nerve becomes compressed, causing pain to radiate down the leg. SI joint dysfunction can cause sciatica-like pain, making it difficult to determine the exact cause of the pain.
Being overweight: Being overweight can put additional pressure on the SI joint, causing it to become inflamed and painful.
Occupational stress: Jobs that require heavy lifting or prolonged periods of standing can put stress on the SI joint, leading to pain and discomfort.
In conclusion, SI joint pain can be caused by several factors, including arthritis, pregnancy, trauma, degenerative disc disease, and being overweight or occupation stress. If you are experiencing SI joint pain, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Seeking treatment early on can help prevent the condition from worsening and improve overall quality of life.
Nostos Chiropractic is a south Calgary chiropractic clinic. We offer gentle, effective chiropractic techniques and love to help people overcome pains and symptoms that are holding them back. Our doctors have each taken advanced training and offer unique services such as baseline concussion testing and concussion management, chiropractic for dogs, and more. If you'd like to book a consultation to find out what Nostos can do for you, click the link below.