Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Pain Care

Our team at Ochsner can help diagnose the cause of lower back pain. In one out of four patients, SI joint dysfunction is the main cause of low back pain. When this happens, it can cause significant discomfort from the lower back down to the lower buttock region and upper leg. This discomfort can lead to debilitation and one’s quality-of-life may greatly suffer. Common symptoms include:

• Lower back pain
• Sensation of low extremity: pain, numbness, tingling, weakness
• Pelvis/buttock pain
• Hip/groin pain
• Feeling of leg instability (buckling, giving way)
• Disturbed sleep patterns due to pain
• Disturbed sitting patterns (unable to sit for long periods, sitting on one side)
• Pain going from sitting to standing

A diagnosis includes a variety of test being performed. A physical examination may help reveal the SI joint as the cause of your symptoms. Tests may include X-rays, a CT-scan or MRI.

Minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion has become a prominent treatment for SI joint dysfunction, offering long-term relief when more conservative measures have failed. The iFuse Implant System is designed to offer a minimally invasive solution for patients who are no longer responding to conservative care. The procedure takes about an hour and involves three small titanium implants inserted surgically across the SI joint. The entire process is done through a small incision, with no soft tissue stripping and minimal tendon irritation. Patients typically leave the hospital the next day after surgery and can usually resume daily living activities within six weeks, depending on how well they are healing based on physician’s orders. The iFuse system is intended for SI joint fusion for conditions including SI joint disruptions and degenerative sacroiliitis.

View our Diagnostic Algorithm for SI Joint Pain

Ochsner Neurosciences is recognized by Healthgrades Neurosciences Excellence Award (TM) nine years in a row (2012-2020) and named among the Top 5% in the nation for Neurosciences for eight years in a row (2013-2020). Ochsner offers the most comprehensive spine care in the region by offering both cutting edge surgical (including minimally invasive surgeries) and non-surgical technologies. A wellness program, the Ochsner Therapy & Wellness Back Care Program, is focused on comprehensive treatment approaches for individuals with sub-acute, chronic neck or back pain.

Advanced Procedures

Ochsner’s neuroscience surgeons are experts in minimally invasive and advanced surgical approaches — giving our patients better results and quicker recovery times.

Same-day Appointments

We understand your pain. That’s why it’s important to us that you can access the state’s top care when you need it and in one location.