Sacroiliac Joint Pain: Care Instructions
Overview
The sacroiliac joints connect the spine and each side of the pelvis. These joints bear the weight and stress of your torso.
Stress on the sacroiliac joints can cause joint pain. This joint pain is more common during pregnancy. Certain kinds of arthritis also may cause this type of joint pain.
Home treatment may help you feel better. So can avoiding activities that stress your back. Your doctor also may recommend physiotherapy. This may include doing exercises and stretches to help with pain. You may also learn to use good posture.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Ask your doctor about light exercises that may help your back pain. Try to do light activity throughout the day. Find a comfortable position for rest, but don't stay in one position for too long. Avoid activities that cause pain.
- To apply heat, put a warm water bottle, a heating pad set on low, or a warm cloth on your back. Do not go to sleep with a heating pad on your skin.
- Put ice or a cold pack on your back for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
- If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
- If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Read and follow all instructions on the label. Take pain medicines exactly as directed.
- Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
- To prevent future back pain, do exercises to stretch and strengthen your back and stomach. Learn how to use good posture, safe lifting techniques, and proper body mechanics.
When should you call for help?
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You are unable to move a leg at all.
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have new or worse symptoms in your legs or buttocks. Symptoms may include:
- Numbness or tingling.
- Weakness.
- Pain.
- You lose bladder or bowel control.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:
- You are not getting better as expected.
Current as of: July 17, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
