The sacroiliac joints are the joints that are responsible for connecting the lumbar spine to the pelvis. When one or both of these joints become inflamed it is known as Sacroiliitis. Sacroiliitis often presents as pain as lower back that radiates into the hips and buttocks and, in some cases, may radiate down one or both legs. This pain is often more noticeable after a period of standing or after activities that require the use of the hips, such as walking, climbing stairs or rising from a sitting position. Due to the location of the pain, it is often confused for a condition of the hip but is actually related to a spinal condition.
Sacroiliitis is common athletes and those who engage in repetitive concussive sports. Strain and repetitive impact on these joints can cause inflammation and expedites the process of deterioration. It is also a common condition in those with pre-existing arthritis of the joints or spine.
Another common cause of Sacroiliitis is thought to be pregnancy. The added weight and altered pronation during pregnancy can cause stress on the sacroiliac joints and can lead to increased deterioration.
In other cases, this is a result of the child birthing process. During childbirth, the sacroiliac joints must stretch to accommodate the birthing process. In some cases, the sacroiliac joints do not return to normal position. This abnormal position creates additional stress on the joints and can accelerate the degenerative process.
Signs and symptoms of Sacroiliitis may include:
- Lower back pain
- Hip pain
- Pain that extends into the buttocks
- Pain the radiates into one or both legs
- Pain that worsens with activity