What is the SI joint?
The sacroiliac joint is located in the back of the pelvic region between the sacrum and the ilium bones, which are connected by strong ligaments. The sacrum supports the spine and is supported in turn by an ilium on each side. The joint is strong. It supports the entire weight of the upper body.
A Look at Hypermobility
SI Joint Hypermobility is a painful condition that occurs when there is too much movement in the sacroiliac joint. As a result of too much movement, the ligaments that hold the joint together become strained, causing inflammation, and wear and tear that could lead to discomfort, mobility issues, and chronic pain.
This condition can affect anyone, but it’s more common in women, especially during pregnancy, or in people with a history of trauma or surgery to the hip and glute area.
It’s important to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options of this condition to manage the pain and maintain an active lifestyle.
Causes of SI Joint Hypermobility
The most common cause of SI Joint Hypermobility is an injury to the joint, such as falls, car accidents, or sports-related injuries. Pregnancy can also cause this condition, as the body releases hormones that relax the ligaments to help the baby pass through the birth canal. Meanwhile, arthritis, degeneration, or wear and tear over time can cause the joint to loosen and become unstable. In rare cases, genetic factors or developmental issues can also contribute to SI Joint Hypermobility.
Symptoms of Hypermobility
The symptoms of SI Joint Hypermobility can vary from person to person, but they often include lower back pain, buttock pain, hip pain, and leg pain. The pain may be sharp, burning, or dull, and it can worsen during activities such as walking, standing, sitting, or bending forward. Some people may also experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs or feet. The pain can be relieved by rest, but it may return when the activity is resumed. You may be able to feel the joint itself slide when you move wrong. It is an extremely weird sensation as many of us may never have even considered that there is a joint there.
Treatment and Management
Chiropractic care is highly effective in treating SI Joint Hypermobility, as chiropractors can adjust the joint and manipulate it in a way that realigns the bones properly. Chiropractic care can also help alleviate any associated muscle tension that may have developed due to many conditions such as pregnancy. Wearing an SI joint brace may also offer some stability and relief to help prevent excessive movement of the joint while allowing for normal movement of the surrounding muscles.
Therapy Exercises
There are also various exercises and stretches that can help alleviate SI Joint Hypermobility. These exercises target the muscles that support the joint, such as the glutes, hamstrings, and abdominals, and can reduce the strain on the ligaments. However, it’s essential to consult with a specialist to determine which exercises are safe for the individual and how to execute them properly to prevent any further damage or worsening of the condition.
Things to Avoid with a Hypermobile SI Joint
Certain activities should be avoided if a person has SI Joint Hypermobility or experiencing symptoms, as these activities can aggravate the condition further. For example, stair climber machines or single-leg step-up exercises with great repetition are not recommended as these exercises place excessive stress on the sacroiliac joint and can lead to further injury.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of SI Joint Hypermobility, it’s essential to consult with a specialist to determine the cause of the pain and develop a tailored treatment plan. Chiropractic care, SI joint brace, exercises, and avoiding high-impact activities that place excessive stress on the joint can all help alleviate symptoms, reduce pain, and restore mobility. By taking proactive measures to manage SI Joint Hypermobility, you can maintain an active lifestyle and minimize the impact of this condition on your quality of life.
Call us at The West Coast Integrative Wellness Center. We can help! www.westcoastintegrativewellnesscenter.com | 239-332-2555.