What is Sacroiliitis ?
Sacroiliitis is painful inflammation of one or both sacroiliac (SI) joints, which connect the lower spine to the pelvis and help absorb shock between the upper body and legs.
Symptoms of Sacroiliitis
- 1. Lower back and buttock pain – May radiate to hips, thighs, or legs
- 2. Stiffness – Worse after sitting or sleeping
- 3. Pain with movement – Worsens with walking, stairs, or running
- 4. Tenderness – Pain when pressing the sacroiliac joints
- 5. Activity-related pain – Increases with hip rotation or large steps
- 6. Morning stiffness – Reduced mobility after waking up
- 7. Pain from prolonged sitting/standing – Discomfort with inactivity
Understanding the Impacts of Sacroiliitis on Your Health
Sacroiliitis primarily causes chronic lower back and pelvic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, making daily activities challenging. The hidden impact includes postural imbalances, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and emotional stress, increasing the risk of anxiety and depression. If left untreated in advanced stages, it can lead to worsening pain, joint damage, spinal fusion (in autoimmune cases), and secondary musculoskeletal issues like hip or knee pain, further affecting overall quality of life.
Consult Our Rheumatologist
- Dr. Alejandro Martinez Muñoz, MBBS, MD : Specializes in rheumatology with a focus on sacroiliitis and joint inflammation management. Book Appointment
- Dr. Adam Elisha, DO : Board-certified rheumatologist with expertise in joint inflammation and management of sacroiliitis. Book Appointment
- Dr. Ziena Jriekh, MD : Experienced rheumatologist with a compassionate approach to sacroiliitis care. Book Appointment
Importance and Benefits of Consulting a Rheumatologist Online
Consulting a rheumatologist as a first-line approach is essential for improving long-term joint health, as they specialize in inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Sacroiliitis is a major cause of lower back pain, affecting individuals worldwide. Its prevalence varies by region and is often associated with conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects the spine. While the specific country most impacted remains unclear, areas with higher rates of inflammatory joint disorders tend to report more cases of sacroiliitis.
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FAQ
Sacroiliitis can be caused by various factors, including inflammatory conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and other autoimmune diseases that affect the joints. Mechanical stress from prolonged standing, excessive physical activity, or improper posture can also contribute to sacroiliac joint inflammation. Trauma, such as falls, accidents, or sports injuries, may damage the joint, leading to chronic pain. Infections, though rare, can also cause sacroiliitis when bacteria enter the sacroiliac joint. Pregnancy-related hormonal changes and increased joint mobility can put extra strain on the SI joints, causing inflammation. If left untreated, sacroiliitis can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and long-term joint damage, impacting daily activities.
The healing time for sacroiliitis varies depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In mild cases, symptoms may improve within a few weeks with appropriate treatment, such as rest, medication, and physical therapy. However, for chronic or more severe cases, healing may take longer, and the condition might require ongoing management to control pain and inflammation. If sacroiliitis is related to an autoimmune or inflammatory condition, such as ankylosing spondylitis, it may be a long-term issue that requires consistent treatment to manage flare-ups and prevent further damage to the joints. Consulting with a rheumatologist is essential for proper diagnosis and to determine an effective treatment plan.
Yes, sacroiliitis is often related to other inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. It is most commonly associated with conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. Other diseases linked to sacroiliitis include psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Sacroiliitis can also be seen in conditions like enteropathic arthritis, which is related to gut disorders. These conditions cause inflammation in the joints, including the sacroiliac joints, leading to pain and discomfort. Additionally, sacroiliitis may occur as a result of infections, trauma, or pregnancy, though these causes are less common.
While sacroiliitis cannot always be completely prevented, certain measures can help reduce the risk and manage its symptoms. Maintaining good posture and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing can prevent unnecessary strain on the sacroiliac joints. Regular exercise, particularly strength training and flexibility exercises, can improve the stability of the spine and pelvis, reducing the likelihood of joint inflammation. For individuals with conditions like ankylosing spondylitis or other autoimmune diseases, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage inflammation and prevent the progression of sacroiliitis. Additionally, avoiding excessive physical stress, using proper body mechanics during lifting, and maintaining a healthy weight can also reduce the risk of sacroiliac joint problems.