SI Joint Injections

Sacroiliac (SI) joint injections are a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat pain in the lower back, buttock, and pelvic region.

The SI joints connect the base of the spine (sacrum) to the pelvis. When these joints become inflamed or dysfunctional, they can cause significant pain.

During the procedure, a combination of local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication (steroid) is injected directly into the joint to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

👉 These injections serve two important purposes:

Diagnostic – confirm the SI joint as the source of pain
Therapeutic – provide pain relief

What Conditions Does This Treatment Help?

SI joint injections are commonly used to treat:

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
Chronic low back pain
Hip or buttock pain
Pelvic pain
Arthritis affecting the SI joint

How Do SI Joint Injections Work?

Pain from the SI joint is usually caused by inflammation or abnormal joint movement.

A needle is guided into the SI joint using imaging (X-ray/fluoroscopy)
Local anesthetic provides immediate, temporary relief
Steroid medication reduces inflammation over time
Pain signals from the joint are reduced

👉 If pain improves after the injection, it confirms the SI joint is the source of pain.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Before the Procedure

Evaluation and physical exam
Imaging may be reviewed (MRI/CT)
Instructions on medications (especially blood thinners)

During the Procedure

Performed under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance
Local anesthesia with or without sedation
Needle placed precisely into the SI joint
Medication injected into the joint
Procedure takes about 15–30 minutes

After the Procedure

Same-day discharge
Temporary numbness or pain relief
Mild soreness at injection site

Benefits of SI Joint Injections

✔ Minimally invasive, no surgery required
✔ Helps identify the exact source of pain
✔ Reduces inflammation and discomfort
✔ Improves mobility and daily function
✔ Can delay or avoid more invasive treatments

Many patients experience pain relief lasting several weeks to months.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a candidate if you:

Have chronic lower back or pelvic pain
Pain worsens with sitting, standing, or climbing stairs
Have not improved with medications or physical therapy
Suspected SI joint involvement

👉 These injections are often recommended when conservative treatments fail.

Risks & Side Effects

SI joint injections are generally safe, but possible risks include:

Temporary soreness or increased pain
Bruising at the injection site
Infection or bleeding (rare)
Nerve irritation (rare)

Serious complications are uncommon when performed with imaging guidance.

When Are SI Joint Injections Recommended?

This treatment is typically recommended when:

Conservative treatments have failed
SI joint pain is suspected but not confirmed
Pain is affecting mobility and quality of life

👉 It is positioned as a mid-level treatment (before RFA or surgery)

Recovery & Results

Mild soreness may last 1–2 days
Immediate relief may occur from anesthetic
Steroid effect begins within a few days
Pain relief may last weeks to months

👉 Some patients may require repeat injections for sustained relief.

FAQs

Are SI joint injections painful?

Most patients feel minimal discomfort due to local anesthesia.

How long does relief last?

Relief can last from several weeks to a few months.

How many injections can I get?

Typically limited to a few per year depending on response.

Do I need imaging guidance?

Yes, imaging ensures accurate placement and better results.

Treatment Offered By Kansas Pain Management

Kansas Pain Management offers a comprehensive pain treatment plan that is tailored to each patient’s specific needs. The first step is a thorough evaluation, which includes a medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing, if necessary.
Treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, injections, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause of the pain.

Kansas Pain Management also offers a range of minimally invasive procedures to help alleviate pain and restore function. With board-certified and fellowship-trained physicians, Kansas Pain Management is committed to providing the highest quality care for patients suffering from pain. You can book an appointment with us at Overland Park, Lawrence, Leavenworth/Lansing, Roeland Park, etc. We also serve nearby locations like Ottawa, Missouri, Topeka, Belton, Manhattan, Lee’s Summit, Johnson County & Kansas areas.