What Is a Sacroiliac Joint Block?
A sacroiliac joint block is an injection containing local anesthetic and steroids, typically used to address lower back pain caused by sacroiliac joint dysfunction and relieve pain longer than other forms of treatment. The sacroiliac joint lies next to the spine and connects the sacrum with the pelvis; this joint can become inflamed and cause massive discomfort and pain.
How to know if a Sacroiliac Joint Block will work?
A Sacroiliac joint block could be right for you if you have lower back discomfort that is linked to arthritis or a similar condition in the sacroiliac joint. If this condition is chronic and relief can’t be achieved through over-the-counter anti-inflammatories or other medicines, then a sacroiliac joint block may be right for you.
What to expect during a Sacroiliac Joint Block procedure?
A Sacroiliac joint block procedure’s goal is to place medication into the sacroiliac joint, either on the left or the right of the joint. In the sacroiliac joint block injection approach, we use fluoroscopic guidance and insert a needle into the sacroiliac joint. We then inject the joint with a mixture of lidocaine, which is a numbing agent, and a steroid to reduce inflammation. This should reduce pain and discomfort for longer and more reliably than other medications.
How to Treat a Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction?
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction can happen when the Sacroiliac Joint becomes inflamed and causes pelvic pain and stiffness.
This can arise from too much or even a lack of movement. Ice and heat can help to relieve pain along with over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, however, if the condition is more serious, a brace or injection may be needed to relieve discomfort in the Sacroiliac Joint.
How Long Should I Rest After A Sacroiliac Joint Block?
One of the major benefits of a sacroiliac joint injection is that the medication should last for several months. This will increase your mobility, and we will encourage you to participate in a physical therapy and rehabilitation program to strengthen your sacroiliac joint.
The recovery process following this procedure is relatively quick. You might experience a bit of soreness for a day or two, but you can alleviate this soreness with ice. Then, as soon as the soreness wears off, you should feel your mobility improve. Therefore, the recovery process is relatively short. It will be a pleasure to answer any questions concerning the recovery process. Reach out to us today to speak to our team.
Sacroiliac Joint Block Injection in OKC
Contact Oklahoma Spine & Pain Management to inquire about treatment or any other services related to a Sacroiliac Joint Block treatment and injections in OKC; call the offices of Daryl Robinson, M.D.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
There are different levels of pain associated with sacroiliac joint injections. This injection involves the use of a local anesthetic, which helps numb the skin before the medication is injected into the joint. During the needle insertion, you may experience mild and tolerable discomfort. After the injection, you may feel soreness around the injection site, which wears off within a day or two. After the injection, you may also feel some slight weakness in your leg.
Book a ConsultationA sacroiliac joint dysfunction can be effectively managed and treated; however, it may not always be possible to cure it completely. With different methods like ice or heat application to the painful area, over-the-counter medications, steroid injections, and physical therapy, you can manage the pain. If you don’t feel sustained relief with these non-operative measures but great relief with SI joint injections, a procedure called SI joint ablation may be helpful.
Book a ConsultationYes, sacroiliac joint injections work for most people, but the effectiveness varies from person to person. If you experience a great reduction in pain after the injection, it can confirm that your pain originates from your sacroiliac joint. A local anesthetic injection may provide immediate relief, while steroids may take a few days to work. Some people experience long-lasting relief for several weeks and months, whereas others may only experience it for a few days. The effectiveness of these injections also depends on the underlying reason for the dysfunction and other health issues. If one injection doesn’t provide you enough relief, you may need more shots spaced a few weeks apart.
Book a ConsultationA sacroiliac joint dysfunction may last between a few weeks to several months. For some people, it may become a chronic condition and trouble them for a time. Every person’s case is different, so the duration of a sacroiliac joint dysfunction will vary. The duration of the dysfunction depends on various factors like the underlying cause, the treatment’s effectiveness, and individual response to pain and recovery.
Book a ConsultationYes, sacroiliac joint injections are generally safe procedures. However, although rare, certain complications are associated with these injections. You may experience side effects like infection and bleeding at the place of injection, allergic reactions to the medication, and nerve damage. For the ultimate safety, precision, and risk minimization, healthcare providers take precautions like fluoroscopy guidance.
Book a ConsultationSacroiliac joint lateral branch blocks cost $575 for one side and $650 for both sides in Oklahoma. However, the exact cost depends on:
- The facility or clinic fees
- The healthcare professional’s fees
- The type of injection you choose (diagnostic or therapeutic)
- Need for additional services (X-rays, MRIs)
- Insurance coverage
Sacroiliac blocks are quite safe when performed by professional healthcare specialists. However, with any medical procedure, there are certain risks and side effects. You may experience side effects like infection, bleeding, or nerve damage. But keep in mind that they are rare. Ultimately, safety comes down to the expertise of the professional carrying out the procedure.
Book a ConsultationHere are the potential side effects of a sacroiliac block:
- Infection at the injection site
- Bleeding at the injection site
- Nerve damage
- Weakness in the leg
- Increment in pain
- Face flushing
- Allergic reaction to medicines
During a sacroiliac branch block, you can expect the following:
- You will have to change into a medical gown and lie face down on the examination table
- The medical staff will explain the procedure and answer your questions
- They will clean and sterilize the injection site to reduce the risk of infection
- To minimize discomfort, they will apply a local anesthetic to numb the skin
- For precise needle placement, your doctor will use the guidance of fluoroscopy
- Your doctor will then inject the medication into the sacroiliac joint
