SI Joint Injection in Chicago
What Is a Sacroiliac Joint Injection
The sacroiliac joint connects the base of the spine to the pelvis, one on each side. When it becomes inflamed or damaged, it can cause lower back, hip, and buttock pain that can be difficult to identify.
A SI joint injection delivers a local anesthetic and a steroid directly into the joint. The anesthetic eases pain very quickly, while the steroid calms down inflammation over time. It also helps confirm if the joint is actually the source. If the sacroiliac joint injection brings relief, that’s a strong diagnostic signal.
It’s used for lower back pain, SI joint dysfunction, arthritis, and pain related to pregnancy or pelvic injury.
How the SI Joint Injection Procedure Is Performed
If a SI joint injection is the right fit for your situation, here’s what the procedure includes. Bringing any relevant medical records, such as imaging, prior diagnoses, and treatment history, is always helpful and gives Dr. Tymouch a clearer picture before anything is decided.
The procedure itself is performed under image guidance, such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound, to ensure the needle reaches the joint precisely. You’ll be positioned face down, the skin is cleaned and numbed, and the needle is carefully advanced into the joint. Once placement is confirmed, the medication is delivered.
The whole thing takes around 15-30 minutes. Most patients go home the same day and can return to normal activity shortly after.
How to Prepare for a Sacroiliac Joint Injection
The sacroiliac joint injection procedure itself is simple, so no complicated steps are required. But a few simple things will make the process smoother.
- Eat and drink normally unless you’ve been told otherwise. In most cases, fasting is not required for this procedure.
- Skip blood thinners if Dr. Tymouch has advised you to do so. Let the office know about any medications you’re taking ahead of your appointment.
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing. You’ll be lying face-down during the procedure, so anything easy to adjust around the lower back and hips is ideal. Avoid tight waistbands or belts.
- Arrange a ride home if sedation is used. Even if you feel fine afterward, it’s a good idea not to drive yourself.
- Share any relevant records. If you have prior imaging or medical history related to your back or pelvis, bring it along. It helps Dr. Tymouch make the best decision before and during the procedure.
Possible SI Joint Injection Side Effects
- Injection Site Soreness. The most common side effect. Usually fades within a day or two.
- Increased Blood Sugar. The steroid can cause a short-term spike in blood sugar, which is worth watching for patients with diabetes.
- Temporary Numbness or Weakness. The anesthetic can occasionally affect nearby nerves, causing brief numbness or leg weakness that wears off within hours.
- Fluid Retention. Some patients notice mild water retention for a week or two after the sacroiliac joint injections.
- Temporary Pain Increase. Some patients feel a brief flare before the steroid takes effect.
- Bruising or Swelling. Minor and localized, and it goes away on its own.
- Infection. Very rare, but possible. Persistent redness, warmth, or discharge at the site should be reported to the clinic.
- Allergic Reaction. Uncommon. Any unusual symptoms in the days following the procedure should be flagged to your doctor.
What to Expect After a SI Joint Injection
Right after the procedure in Chicago, IL, the anesthetic will make the area feel numb or less painful. Once it wears off, some pain may return before the steroid starts working. That’s normal.
The steroid usually starts working within 24-72 hours. Relief can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the person. Strenuous exercise is best avoided for at least 24 hours.
If the SI injection provides good relief, physical therapy is worth considering, because it’s easier to work on strength and movement issues when pain isn’t in the way.
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Choose Painless Medical Practice for SI Joint Injections in Chicago, IL
SI joint pain often gets misdiagnosed and treated the wrong way as a result. Dr. Tymouch makes sure the source is correctly identified before recommending anything.
From there, treatment is built around your specific situation. That might mean a steroid injection, a PRP injection for tissue recovery, a scapulothoracic bursa injection for related structural pain, or a joint injection targeting multiple sources. You get what makes sense for your case, not more, not less.
For dependable pain management in Chicago, IL, Painless Medical Practice focuses on results, which means fewer visits and measurable results. Book an appointment in Chicago, IL, and let us help you feel better.
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FAQs About SI Joint Injection in Chicago
What Is a Sacroiliac Joint Injection?
A sacroiliac joint injection is a treatment used to address lower back, hip, and buttock pain caused by inflammation or dysfunction in the sacroiliac joint, which connects the spine to the pelvis. The injection contains a local anesthetic for immediate pain relief and a steroid to reduce long-term inflammation. It can also help confirm if the SI joint is the source of pain, making it a valuable diagnostic tool for conditions like SI joint dysfunction, arthritis, and pain related to pregnancy or pelvic injury.
How Long Does an SI Joint Injection Last?
The effects of an SI joint injection can vary between patients. The local anesthetic typically provides immediate relief, but the steroid begins to work within 24-72 hours and may offer pain relief lasting from a few weeks to several months. The duration depends on the individual’s response to the injection and the underlying condition.
What to Expect After SI Joint Injection?
After the SI joint injection, you’ll feel numbness or reduced pain due to the anesthetic. As it wears off, some pain may return temporarily until the steroid takes effect. It typically starts working within 1-3 days, providing relief that can last from a few weeks to several months. Strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 24 hours after the injection.
What to Do After SI Joint Injection?
Post-procedure, it’s important to rest and avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours. You may resume normal activities as long as you’re comfortable. If the sacroiliac joint injection provides significant relief, physical therapy can help further improve strength and mobility, making recovery easier.
How Painful Is a Sacroiliac Joint Injection?
The SI joint injection itself is typically well-tolerated. Some discomfort may be felt during the procedure, but it should not be overly painful. Afterward, some soreness and temporary pain increase are common, but these usually resolve quickly.
What People Say About Sacroiliac Joint Injection
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If you are looking for a knowledgeable, compassionate and highly skilled professional, I highly recommend Dr Tymouch. His expertise truly stand out!
Dr. Tymouch took the time to carefully explain everything, answer my questions, and made me feel completely at ease throughout the entire visit. He treated my knee pain with injections, and the results were truly amazing and fast. I happy that I will be able to enjoy my vacation without discomfort. I’m so grateful for his care and highly recommend Dr. Tymouch to anyone in need of expert, compassionate treatment.
The team is professional, compassionate, and highly skilled at managing different types of pain.
