Sacroiliitis is an inflammation of one or both of the sacroiliac joints which are located in the lower back. The joints in the back have a very small range of motion compared to other joints and because their location is under a lot of stress. Their inflammation means that even the slightest movement involving the spine can cause pain and discomfort in the buttocks, lower back or even down one or both legs. The condition is often associated with diseases which cause inflammatory arthritis of the spine, which makes it difficult to diagnose

 

Symptoms

The list of symptoms includes the following:

• Decreased range of movement;
• Stiffness;
• Limp;
• Lower back/buttock pain;
• Fever;
• Decreased range of movement;
• Stiffness;
• Limp;
• Lower back/buttock pain;
• Fever

Sacroillitis pain can be aggravated by prolonged standing, bearing more weight on one leg than the other, stair climbing, running or taking large strides.

 

Causes

A wide range of factors or events may cause sacroiliac joint dysfunction, including:

• Traumatic injury;
• Arthritis;
• Pregnancy;
• Infection.

 

Complications

Sacroiliitis may be part of an inflammatory arthritic condition known as ankylosing spondylitis. Complications of this condition can be very serious, including difficulty breathing, spine deformities, lung infections and heart problems.

 

Prevention

Unfortunately, SI joint dysfunction is not preventable in some people and for many people it is an unfortunate part of the normal aging process. However, the severity can be reduced through treatment with medication, injections, or physical therapy. Maintaining a healthy body weight and good conditioning can reduce the chances of developing SI joint dysfunction and other forms of arthritis. By reducing the loads on the joints, there is less chance for cartilage damage and subsequent arthritis.