Sacroiliac (SI) fractures and joint injuries affect the connection between the spine and pelvis, known as the sacroiliac joint. This critical joint plays a key role in transferring weight between the upper body and lower extremities while providing stability and support.

Injuries to the sacroiliac region can range from mild ligament strain to severe fractures and joint disruption. Prompt diagnosis and proper treatment are essential to prevent chronic pain and long-term mobility issues.

What Are Sacroiliac Fractures and SI Joint Injuries?

The sacroiliac joints are located on both sides of the lower spine, where the sacrum meets the iliac bones of the pelvis.

• A sacroiliac fracture involves a break in the sacrum or surrounding pelvic bones near the SI joint.
• A sacroiliac joint injury may involve ligament damage, inflammation, or joint instability without a complete fracture.

These injuries can disrupt the stability of the pelvic ring and affect normal movement and weight-bearing.

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Causes of Sacroiliac Injuries

Sacroiliac fractures and joint injuries are often caused by:

• High-energy trauma (e.g., motor vehicle accidents)
• Falls from height
• Direct impact to the lower back or pelvis
• Sports-related injuries
• Degenerative conditions or repetitive stress

In some cases, SI joint dysfunction may develop gradually due to wear and tear or biomechanical imbalance.

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Symptoms of SI Joint Injuries

Symptoms can vary depending on severity but commonly include:

• Pain in the lower back, buttocks, or pelvis
• Pain that worsens with standing, walking, or climbing stairs
• Tenderness over the sacroiliac joint
• Limited mobility or stiffness
• Pain radiating into the hips or thighs

Severe fractures may also cause difficulty bearing weight or walking.

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Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is important to distinguish SI joint injuries from other causes of lower back or hip pain.

Evaluation may include:

• Physical examination and movement testing
• Imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI
• Diagnostic injections to confirm SI joint involvement

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Treatment Options

Treatment depends on whether the injury is stable or involves significant joint disruption.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Many SI joint injuries can be managed conservatively with:

• Rest and activity modification
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy to improve strength and stability
• SI joint injections for pain relief
• Use of a pelvic brace in some cases

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be necessary for unstable fractures or severe joint damage:

• Internal fixation with screws or plates
• Sacroiliac joint fusion to stabilize the joint
• Minimally invasive procedures in select cases

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Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery timelines vary based on injury severity:

• Mild SI joint injuries may improve within weeks to a few months
• Fractures or surgical cases may require 3–6 months or longer
• Physical therapy is essential for restoring strength, flexibility, and proper movement patterns

Early rehabilitation helps reduce the risk of chronic pain and recurring issues.

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Potential Complications

Without appropriate treatment, sacroiliac injuries may lead to:

• Chronic lower back or pelvic pain
• Joint instability
• Reduced mobility
• Nerve irritation or radiating pain
• Degenerative joint changes over time

Early evaluation and treatment can prevent long-term complications and improve your quality of life.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a sacroiliac fracture or SI joint injury, schedule an appointment with an orthopedic specialist today.

At East Bay Orthopedic Specialists, you’ll be cared for by highly experienced surgeons including Dr. Michael Krosin, Dr. Steven Zourabian, and Dr. Virginia Lieu—trusted experts in treating fractures in the East Bay Area.

Schedule your consultation today to receive a personalized treatment plan and get back to pain-free movement as quickly as possible.