Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Injection

What Is the SI Joint?

Your sacroiliac joint — we call it the “SI joint” for short — is where your lower spine connects to your pelvis. You have one on each side, right where those two dimples are on your lower back. Think of these joints as the bridge between your upper body and your legs. Every time you walk, sit down, or bend over, your SI joints are working.

When these joints are healthy, you don't even notice them. But when they're inflamed or irritated, they can cause a deep, aching pain in your lower back, hips, or buttocks that can really affect your daily life.

Why Does the SI Joint Hurt?

Several things can cause SI joint pain:

• Arthritis — Just like your knees or shoulders, the SI joint can develop wear-and-tear arthritis over time
• Injury — A fall, car accident, or sudden impact can damage the joint
• Pregnancy and childbirth — Hormonal changes loosen the joint, and the physical stress of carrying a baby can irritate it
• Repetitive stress — Jobs or activities that involve a lot of bending, lifting, or twisting
• Uneven movement — If you walk differently because of a leg length difference or a previous surgery, extra stress can land on the SI joint

If any of this sounds familiar, you're not alone. SI joint problems are one of the most common causes of lower back pain.

What Happens During the Injection?

This is a straightforward procedure that typically takes about 15–20 minutes. Here's what to expect:

1. You'll lie face down on a comfortable procedure table
2. We clean the area on your lower back with a sterile solution
3. A small numbing shot is given to the skin so you stay comfortable — this feels like a brief pinch and sting
4. Dr. Patibanda uses fluoroscopy (a real-time X-ray) to guide a thin needle directly into the SI joint — this ensures precision and safety
5. A small amount of contrast dye is injected to confirm the needle is in exactly the right spot
6. The medication is delivered — a combination of a local anesthetic (for immediate relief) and a steroid (to reduce inflammation over the coming days)
7. The needle is removed, a small bandage is placed, and you're done

Most patients say the procedure is much easier than they expected.

How to Prepare

• Eating: You can eat normally before your appointment unless told otherwise
• Medications: Let us know about all medications you take. Blood thinners may need to be paused beforehand — Dr. Patibanda will give you specific instructions
• What to wear: Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You may be asked to change into a gown
• Bring a driver: You'll need someone to drive you home. The numbing medication can temporarily affect your leg strength

What to Expect After Your Injection

• Right away: You may feel numbness or immediate pain relief from the anesthetic — this is normal and temporary
• First 1–2 days: Some soreness at the injection site is common. Ice the area for 15–20 minutes at a time and take it easy
• Days 3–7: This is when the steroid kicks in. Many patients start noticing real improvement in their pain
• First week: Avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise, or soaking in a bath or pool. Light walking is fine and encouraged

Risks and Benefits

Recovery Timeline

When to Call Our Office

Contact us right away if you experience:

• Fever or chills after the procedure
• Increasing pain that gets worse instead of better after 2–3 days
• New weakness or numbness in your legs that doesn't go away
• Redness, swelling, or drainage at the injection site
• Difficulty with bladder or bowel control (rare — go to the ER)

Frequently Asked Questions