Pain low in the back, clearly on one side, right on the “dimple” of the pelvis, sometimes radiating into the buttock or thigh? The sacroiliac joint — the link between spine and pelvis — is one of the most underdiagnosed sources of low back pain, hiding behind the generic label “my back hurts”.
What is sacroiliac dysfunction?
The sacroiliac joints transfer the trunk’s weight to the legs. They move little, but that little matters: their blockage (hypomobility), irritation or instability produces local and referred pain. Studies attribute 15–30% of chronic low back pain to them.
Common symptoms
One-sided pain below the beltline, pinpoint over the joint, radiating into the buttock and back of the thigh (rarely below the knee), pain when rising from a chair, climbing stairs, lying on one side or turning in bed — often mistaken for sciatica.
Common causes
Gait and posture asymmetries, leg-length differences, pregnancy and postpartum (ligament laxity), trauma (falls onto the buttocks), asymmetric sports load and compensations after hip or spine problems.
Can it be treated without surgery?
Yes, almost always: joint mobilisation and manipulation, targeted stabilisation (glutes, core) and asymmetry correction. Injections are discussed case-by-case for refractory pain; surgery is an extreme rarity.
How we treat SI dysfunction at Medicine Park
Specific testing (the provocation-test battery — the diagnosis is clinical), differentiation from the lumbar spine and hip, then the plan: manual and chiropractic care for the joint, progressive pelvic stabilisation, gait-pattern correction and, when needed, a temporary SI belt. All in English.
How long does recovery take?
Recent cases: 3–6 weeks. Chronic or postpartum: 6–10 weeks of consistent work.
When to seek help
If your “back pain” is always on the same side, low down, and has not responded to what you have tried, the sacroiliac joint deserves proper testing. Your first assessment at Medicine Park is free.
