Low back pain is a prevalent issue that affects many people, but for some, the root cause may be Sacroiliac Joint (SIJ) dysfunction. The SIJ is the joint where your sacrum connects to your pelvis. This joint plays a crucial role in stabilizing your lower back and pelvis, and it is supported by ligaments and muscles both at the front and back.
One often-overlooked muscle in this system is the psoas muscle. This muscle is key to stabilizing the front of the SIJ. When the psoas muscle weakens, the SIJ can become compressed as the body tries to create stability, leading to pain and inflammation.
Understanding Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction and Its Impact on Low Back Pain
Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction can have various causes, including:
Muscle Imbalance: Weakness or tightness in the muscles surrounding the SIJ, such as the psoas, gluteal muscles, or hip rotators, can lead to dysfunction.
Trauma: Injuries from accidents, falls, or sudden impacts can damage the ligaments or structures around the SIJ, causing dysfunction.
Pregnancy and Childbirth: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can loosen ligaments around the SIJ, leading to instability and dysfunction. Additionally, the physical stress of childbirth can contribute to SIJ dysfunction.
Arthritis: Degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis or ankylosing spondylitis can affect the SIJ, causing inflammation, pain, and dysfunction.
Leg Length Discrepancy: A significant difference in leg length can alter the mechanics of the pelvis and SIJ, leading to dysfunction over time.
Repetitive Movements: Activities or occupations that involve repetitive or asymmetrical movements, such as lifting, bending, or twisting, can strain the SIJ and contribute to dysfunction.
Poor Posture: Prolonged sitting or standing with improper posture can place uneven pressure on the SIJ, leading to imbalances and dysfunction.
Overuse: Excessive or repetitive stress on the SIJ, such as from high-impact activities like running or jumping, can contribute to wear and tear and eventual dysfunction.
It’s essential to identify and address the underlying causes of SIJ dysfunction to effectively manage symptoms and prevent recurrence.
A Real-Life Case Study
Let me share a case from my practice. A client came in experiencing severe pain while standing and bending forward. After a thorough assessment, we discovered that the psoas muscle was inhibited—it wasn’t functioning properly. As a result, the ligaments at the back of the SIJ were overactive, trying to compensate for the psoas muscle’s weakness.
To address this, we performed a treatment that included releasing the SIJ and activating the psoas muscle. The outcome was immediate and profound: the client could stand and bend forward without pain.
More Than Just Exercises and Physical Therapy
Research suggests that regular physical therapy and exercises targeting the psoas and other stabilizing muscles can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with SIJ dysfunction. However, I have found that, in reality, the most effective way to maintain sustainable health and prevent chronic pain requires more than just exercises and physical therapy.
With over 20 years of experience, I understand how the body truly functions. To develop a solid foundation for sustaining health, it’s essential to recognize that no system in the body works alone, gets injured alone, or heals on its own.
A Holistic Approach to Healing
To prevent chronic pain, it’s crucial to use the recovery period to build sustainable health. This requires consistency and a comprehensive treatment plan. Each follow-up session should include therapies such as lymphatic and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) therapy, which help develop better movement patterns.
SIJ dysfunction often disrupts the lateral subsystem, a group of muscles that work together to stabilize and support side-to-side movements as we move forward. Improving the function of these muscles can lead to significant improvements in overall movement and stability, reducing the likelihood of future pain.
Building a Sustainable Foundation
In summary, while exercises and physical therapy are vital, a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of the body’s systems is essential for true recovery and sustained health. This comprehensive strategy ensures that each part of the body supports and enhances the others, leading to more effective healing and long-term well-being.
Your Journey to Wellness
If you’re struggling with low back pain, it might be time to consider whether SIJ dysfunction could be the culprit. Remember, sustainable health and pain prevention require a holistic approach that addresses all aspects of your body’s interconnected systems. By committing to a comprehensive treatment plan and consistent follow-up, you can build a solid foundation for lasting health and wellness.
Let’s work together to understand your body’s needs and develop a treatment plan that supports your journey to a pain-free life.
“Discovering the root of your pain empowers you to take control of your health and reclaim your freedom. Let’s explore together”