Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction Action Plan

The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects the base of the spine to the pelvis.

In other words, it joins the sacrum (the triangular bone at the bottom of the spine) with the pelvis at two connection points. (You can see these from the outside as two "dimples” on each side of the lower back, at the belt line.)

It’s small, but very strong, remains fairly still, and acts as a shock-absorbing structure.

Because it is a weight-bearing joint, the SI joint can become irritated and inflamed.

Oftentimes, muscle imbalances can pull it completely out of alignment.

Other causes of SI joint dysfunction can include multiple pregnancies (that have stressed the joint) or one leg that is shorter than the other, as well as imbalances in the mind (e.g., too much negative stress) and the diet (e.g., too much calcium, not enough magnesium).

Pain usually occurs in the lower back, with pain radiating to the buttocks and legs.

The symptoms may mimic the symptoms of a herniated disc or sciatic pain (pain along the sciatic nerve that radiates down the leg).

Usually, sacroiliac joint dysfunction is the result of an imbalance in the position of the pelvis as it relates to the curvature at the base of the spine.

Should the pelvis tip or tilt, the connection points of the joints will be off, causing uneven wear and tear.

If left untreated, arthritis can occur in the joint.

Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction does not occur overnight.

It is the result of years of muscle and posture imbalances which ultimately prevent the muscles, bones and SI joint from working together, like they're supposed to do.

Proper treatment requires correcting the muscle imbalances which caused the condition in the first place.

Those whose pain mimics that of disc herniation or sciatica may choose the temporary pain relief steps suggested for those conditions for relief specific to their symptoms.

Again, it's important to understand that because this condition did not occur suddenly, it will take time to reverse the muscle imbalances–therefore, it can be beneficial to include both the short and long-term treatments suggested below.

If you have SI joint dysfunction, this free video demonstrates rebalancing techniques specific to your condition.

Watch it here

Temporary Pain Relief — Action Plan

Read about all the elements of a successful temporary pain relief action plan

These are the three you should begin today, in order of importance

1. Far infrared heat therapy

2. Pain-relief cream

3. Natural anti-inflammatory (e.g., proteolytic enzyme supplements)

Long-Term Relief — Action Plan

1. Muscle-Balance Therapy

2. Trigger-point therapy

3. Inversion therapy

4. Emotional troubleshooting

5. Dietary adjustments