The sacroiliac joints (SI joints) are formed by the sacrum and pelvis. The sacrum is like the tailbone at the base of the spine fits in between the two pelvis bones which are called the iliac bones. This joint is not a highly mobile joint because its role is largely one of providing stability and it is weight bearing in nature. Therefore it is held together by strong ligaments. Because this joint in under a lot of stress it is a common area to experience discomfort in and this is termed SI joint pain.

Usually when problems arise in this joint it is termed sacroiliac joint dysfunction and it result in SI joint pain. It can also be referred to as SI joint inflammation, SI joint syndrome and SI joint strain. This shows the complexity and vulnerability of this joint.

The causes of sacroiliac joint dysfunction can be varied. It is prone to degeneration like any other joint in the body, with the wearing away of shock absorbing cartilage. This leads to bones beginning to rub on each other and is termed osteoarthritis. This is likely the most common cause of SI joint pain and problem with most weight bearing joints of the body.

Pregnancy can also lead to SI joint pain. During pregnancy there are special hormones released by the body to help prepare it for child birth. The hormones help to relax the ligaments of the body and in the SI joint area this can make it more susceptible to strain. Plus you have alterations in walking and standing posture coupled with the added weight of pregnancy. This can all result in SI joint pain.

Also any change or problem in the lower half of the body that disrupts the walking or gait cycle could cause SI joint problems. A leg length discrepancy, where one leg is longer than the other can do this. Also any injury to the lower back, foot, hip, knee or ankle can all result in a abnormal pattern of walking that places undue stress on the SI joints and causes SI joint pain.

SI joint pain tends to affect females more than males. This probably relates to the anatomical variances between the two sexes. Females may find that sleeping on their side aggravates their SI joint pain. In this position the top thigh drops inwards and can strain the SI joint with prolonged posturing in this position. This is easily rectified with putting a pillow between the legs. Also the Si joint is strained with sitting cross legged. This opens the joint up while making it bear weight. To fix this you simply have to stop sitting cross legged.

There are some good physical therapies available for SI joint pain. Pilates and Yoga are highly recommended. Gaining flexibility in tight muscles can help with any uneven compensation that may be happening in the SI joints. Improving core stability is also a vital component for preventing SI joint strain. These activities can be seen as an investment in the health of your body, so make them part of your regular health routine.