Many people experience back pain and, as you may know, symptoms can vary. Sometimes back pain is sharp and located off to one side. Pain can also be isolated to the low back or travel into the buttock or down the leg. Oftentimes, pain occurs with certain positions or movements. Although the source of back pain can be located in the lumbar spine, it can also be related to a joint where the spine meets the pelvis, called the sacroiliac joint.
The Sacroiliac (SI) joint is where the flared bones of the pelvis meet the sacrum or base of the spine. There are two SI joints, one on the left and one on the right. You may notice “dimples” on either side of your low back which approximate where both SI joints are located. The primary function of the SI joint is to absorb shock between the upper body and the pelvis and legs. Small movements at these joints assist in forward and backward bending.
Physical therapy can assist with SIJ dysfunction by focusing on stretching and pain relief to the low back and buttock area. Many times, muscle tension contributes to the pain levels for SIJ dysfunction. By addressing these tight muscles, you can potentially decrease your pain. After mobility is improved, strengthening to the muscles in the low back, hips, and buttocks can provide stability to these joints. Physical therapists are movement experts who can help evaluate and plan an individualized program for each person to treat their specific symptoms and muscle imbalances.
Request your free assessment at an Athletico today and get started. Free assessments are available in-clinic and virtually through our Telehealth platform.
Physical therapy is usually the thing you are told to do after medication, x-rays or surgery. The best way to fix your pain is to start where you normally finish – with physical therapy at Athletico.
The Athletico blog is an educational resource written by Athletico employees. Athletico bloggers are licensed professionals who abide by the code of ethics outlined by their respective professional associations. The content published in blog posts represents the opinion of the individual author based on their expertise and experience. The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice and should not be relied on for making personal health decisions.