SI (Sacroiliac) Injection
An SI (Sacroiliac) Injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat pain in the sacroiliac joint, which is located in the lower back where the spine meets the pelvis. This procedure involves injecting a mixture of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication directly into the joint to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.
Why Might You Need an SI Injection?
You might be a candidate for an SI Injection if you experience chronic pain in your lower back, buttocks, or legs that has not responded to other treatments. Conditions commonly treated with SI Injections include:
- Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: Abnormal movement or inflammation of the SI joint.
- Lower Back Pain: Persistent pain originating from the sacroiliac joint.
- Pelvic Pain: Discomfort or pain in the pelvic region often associated with the SI joint.
What Are the Steps in an SI Injection Procedure?
Preoperative Preparation
- Medical Evaluation: Comprehensive review of medical history and current symptoms.
- Medication Review: Instructions on which medications to avoid prior to the procedure.
- Fasting: Specific guidelines on fasting if sedation is required.
During the Procedure
- Patient Positioning: You will lie face down on a procedure table.
- Local Anesthesia: The area around the injection site will be numbed.
- Needle Insertion: Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, a needle is inserted into the sacroiliac joint.
- Medication Injection: A mixture of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication is injected into the joint.
Postoperative Care
- Monitoring: You will be observed for a short period after the procedure.
- Activity Restrictions: Limited physical activity is recommended for the rest of the day, with a gradual return to normal activities as tolerated.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Postoperative Care
- Pain Relief: Pain relief can begin within a few days and may last for several months.
- Pain Diary: Keeping a pain diary to monitor the effectiveness of the procedure is encouraged.
- Follow-Up: A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to evaluate your response to the treatment.
Potential Complications
While SI Injections are generally safe, potential complications can include:
- Infection: Rare, but possible at the injection site.
- Bleeding: Minor bleeding may occur.
- Nerve Damage: Extremely rare but a potential risk.
- Temporary Pain Increase: Some patients may experience an initial increase in pain.
Benefits of SI Injections in Pain Management
- Targeted Pain Relief: Effective in reducing chronic pain associated with the sacroiliac joint.
- Improved Functionality: Helps improve mobility and ability to perform daily activities.
- Minimally Invasive: Offers a non-surgical option for pain management.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Allows for increased participation in physical and social activities.
