The sacro-iliac joint is located in the pelvis, connecting the sacrum to the iliac bones of the pelvis. When this joint becomes inflamed or painful, it can cause significant discomfort and mobility issues.
There are many potential causes of sacro-iliac joint pain, including:
Trauma: Trauma to the sacro-iliac joint, such as a fall or a car accident, can cause the joint to become inflamed and painful.
Arthritis: Arthritis is a common cause of sacro-iliac joint pain. As the joint wears down over time, it can become inflamed and painful.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy can put a significant amount of strain on the sacro-iliac joint, leading to inflammation and pain.
Overuse: Overuse of the sacro-iliac joint, such as through repetitive motions or activities, can lead to inflammation and pain.
Muscle imbalances: Muscle imbalances in the pelvis and lower back can cause the sacro-iliac joint to become misaligned, leading to inflammation and pain.
Poor posture: Poor posture can put additional strain on the sacro-iliac joint, leading to inflammation and pain over time.
Leg length discrepancy: A difference in leg length can cause the pelvis to become misaligned, leading to inflammation and pain in the sacro-iliac joint.
Fortunately, physiotherapy using muscle energy techniques can help alleviate the pain and improve your quality of life.
Muscle energy techniques are a form of manual therapy that use the patient's own muscles to facilitate a stretch or mobilization of the affected joint. These techniques are safe, effective, and non-invasive, making them an ideal treatment for sacro-iliac joint pain.
At Physio on Bayside, we specialize in muscle energy techniques for the treatment of sacro-iliac joint pain. Our physiotherapists will use a variety of muscle energy techniques, including:
Isometric contractions: Isometric contractions involve contracting a muscle without moving the joint. Our physiotherapists will use isometric contractions to strengthen the muscles surrounding the sacro-iliac joint and improve stability.
Reciprocal inhibition: Reciprocal inhibition involves contracting one muscle while stretching the opposing muscle. Our physiotherapists will use reciprocal inhibition to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
Muscle energy stretching: Muscle energy stretching involves contracting a muscle and then stretching it further than the patient can on their own. Our physiotherapists will use muscle energy stretching to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
Exercise therapy is also an essential part of physiotherapy treatment for sacro-iliac joint pain. Our physiotherapists will develop a customized exercise program designed to strengthen the muscles surrounding the sacro-iliac joint and improve your range of motion. Poor posture and ergonomics can also contribute to sacro-iliac joint pain. Our physiotherapists will assess your posture and provide advice on ergonomics to reduce your risk of developing sacro-iliac joint pain.
Sacro-iliac joint pain can significantly impact your quality of life, but you don't have to suffer. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our physiotherapists and walk out feeling better.