SI Joint Pain: 5 Signs You May Need a More Permanent Solution

Persistent lower back or buttocks pain that won’t go away could be more than a muscle strain. If your discomfort is centered around the sacroiliac (SI) joint, you might be experiencing sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Ignoring it or masking symptoms may only delay the inevitable — a long-term treatment solution could be necessary.

Our board-certified spine specialists at Northwest Spine Surgery combine elite training with hands-on experience in minimally invasive techniques. Dr. Kendrick Khoo earned his medical degree from the Ohio State University College of Medicine, completed his orthopedic surgery residency at UCSF Fresno, and pursued fellowship training in spine surgery at UC Davis. Dr. Serena Liu completed her orthopedic residency at the University of Rochester and her spine fellowship at the University of Maryland. Both physicians are known for their patient-centered approach and for using the most current, evidence-supported spine-care strategies.

When to Consider SI Joint Fusion

While conservative treatments like physical therapy and injections may work for some, others may find no lasting relief. Here are five signs your SI joint pain could require a permanent solution like SI joint fusion:

1. Your pain has lasted more than six months: Chronic discomfort despite rest, therapy, or medications suggests a deeper structural issue.
2. Daily activities are increasingly difficult: Pain while sitting, walking, or sleeping could indicate SI joint instability.
3. You rely heavily on pain medications: Frequent use of NSAIDs or prescriptions may only mask symptoms without resolving the problem.
4. Previous treatments have failed: If chiropractic care, steroid injections, or physical therapy haven’t helped, surgical stabilization might be the next step.
5. Imaging and diagnostic tests confirm SI joint dysfunction: Fusion becomes a logical solution if scans or physical exams consistently point to the sacroiliac joint.

These signs suggest the need for a more long-term, structurally based approach to SI joint pain relief.

SI Joint Pain and Surgical Evaluation: What to Expect from Diagnosis

You don’t need to make this decision alone. During a spine evaluation, your provider may:

• Perform motion tests and palpation: These help determine pain origin.
• Use image-guided injections: If pain relief follows an SI joint injection, the joint is likely the issue.
• Review diagnostic imaging: CT scans and X-rays may reveal abnormalities.

SI joint pain can be mistaken for other back conditions. That’s why expert diagnosis is essential.

Talk to Portland’s SI Joint Experts

If chronic SI joint pain has impacted your routine, there are options beyond temporary fixes. Call 503-253-4000 to schedule an appointment with surgeons specializing in sacroiliac joint dysfunction.