Sacroiliitis Physiotherapy Brisbane southside.

What is Sacroiliitis?
Sacroiliitis, commonly called "SIJ pain" refers to the inflammation of one or both sacroiliac joints — the points where the lower spine connects to the pelvis. This inflammation can cause pain in the buttocks, lower back, and may even refer down one or both legs. Sacroiliitis can be caused by a variety of factors, such as trauma, pregnancy, osteoarthritis, spondyloarthropathies or even due to prolonged periods of gait imbalance.

How is Sacroiliitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing Sacroiliitis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging:

Physical Examination: The physiotherapist will evaluate the pain's location and its nature and may perform specific movements tests to assess pain provocation and restriction.
X-rays: Helps to identify changes in the sacroiliac joint if osteoarthritis is suspected.
MRI: Especially useful in detecting sacroiliac inflammation.
Diagnostic Injections: Sometimes, anaesthetics or steroids are injected into the sacroiliac joint to determine the source of pain (performed by medical doctors).

How can Physiotherapy Help with Sacroiliitis?
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the management and treatment of Sacroiliitis:

Pain Management: hands-on, dry needling, or using sacro-iliac belts can help relieve pain and inflammation.
Strengthening Exercises: Targeting muscles that support the pelvis and spine to offer better joint stability.
Flexibility Exercises: Enhancing mobility and reducing joint stress.
Joint Mobilisation: Manual techniques to improve joint movement and reduce pain.
Posture Education: Guidance on maintaining optimal posture during daily activities and rest.
Orthotics: in case leg-length discrepancy is driving the SIJ pain fitting an orthotic insole may be beneficial.

How can Clinical Pilates Help with Sacroiliitis Rehabilitation?
Clinical Pilates complements physiotherapeutic interventions by:

Improving Core Strength: Strengthening the deep abdominal and back muscles provides better support for the spine and pelvis.
Enhancing Flexibility: Tailored exercises improve overall body flexibility, reducing undue stress on the sacroiliac joint.
Body Awareness: Promoting understanding and awareness of body alignment and posture to reduce exacerbating factors.
Functional Rehabilitation: Specific Pilates movements that mimic daily activities help in a more holistic recovery approach.

What is the Prognosis for Sacroiliitis?
The prognosis for Sacroiliitis is generally favourable:

With appropriate and early intervention, many patients experience significant relief from symptoms.
Chronic cases or those linked with underlying conditions (like ankylosing spondylitis) may require longer-term management strategies.
A multi-disciplinary approach, involving physiotherapy, medications, and sometimes interventional procedures, offers the best outcomes.

Additional Tips for Managing Sacroiliitis

Regular Exercise: Keeping active helps maintain joint flexibility, muscle strength and reduce inflammation.
Weight Management: Reducing excessive strain on the pelvis and spine by maintaining a healthy weight.
Ergonomic Practices: If your job requires prolonged sitting, make sure to take breaks, use supportive chairs, and maintain proper posture.

At our clinic, we prioritise your well-being and strive to provide a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to managing conditions like Sacroiliitis. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way on your journey to optimal health.

At Articulate Physiotherapy our physiotherapists can thoroughly assess and diagnose both symptoms of your back or SIJ pain and it's causes. We'd love to see you soon - why not call us on 07 3706 3407 or email [email protected] to make an appointment with one of our incredible Tarragindi and Coorparoo physios!

BOOK YOUR INITIAL physiotherapy appointment here