Overview
Understanding sacroiliac joint injections
The right and left SI joints transfer load between the spine and pelvis. Pain in this region can overlap with lumbar spine, hip, and soft-tissue problems, so physical examination and other information are used before selecting the joint as a target.
Image guidance helps confirm needle position. The response to local anesthetic may provide diagnostic information, while corticosteroid may be discussed when inflammation is part of the working diagnosis.
Useful context
When this may be discussed
- Selected pain near the low back, buttock, or upper leg
- Testing whether an SI joint is a meaningful pain source
- Supporting movement or rehabilitation when symptoms are reduced
At the clinic
What the process may involve
- 01
Review of medications, allergies, infection risk, pregnancy possibility, and prior care
- 02
Positioning, skin preparation, and local numbing medicine
- 03
Fluoroscopic or other image guidance with contrast when appropriate
- 04
Post-procedure instructions and a plan to record response
Benefits, limits, and risks
Questions to discuss before treatment
- Response varies, and pain in the same region may have another source.
- Risks include bleeding, infection, medication reaction, temporary weakness or numbness, increased pain, and injury to nearby tissue or nerves.
- Repeated injections are not a substitute for reassessing the diagnosis and the broader plan.
References
Sources and further reading
These references provide general education. They do not replace advice from a clinician who knows your health history.