Sacroiliac (SI) Joint injection

The sacroiliac (SI) joints connect the base of the spine to the pelvis and can be a source of persistent buttock, lower-back or pelvic pain. An SI joint injection may be considered when the clinical assessment suggests that the joint is contributing to symptoms and conservative treatment has not provided adequate relief.

Under X-ray or ultrasound guidance, a fine needle is placed accurately into the SI joint and a small amount of local anaesthetic, with or without corticosteroid, is injected. Image guidance is important because the joint space is relatively small and accurate placement helps ensure that the intended area is treated.

The injection may provide short-term pain relief and can also provide useful diagnostic information about the contribution of the SI joint to your symptoms. If a clearly positive but temporary response is obtained, other treatment options, including radiofrequency treatment of the nerves supplying the joint, may be considered in selected patients. Dr Danesh will discuss the result and next steps with you.