General Information About Sacroiliitis
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the inflammation of one or both of the highly strong sacroiliac joints that connect the base of the spine to the pelvis, transferring the body's weight to the legs.
It is caused by severe trauma (falls, accidents), excessive stretching of the joint during pregnancy, and most importantly, rheumatic diseases (Ankylosing Spondylitis) where the immune system attacks the joint.
It is a deep pain felt in the back of the hip or lower back, which can radiate down the back of the thigh to the knee. It particularly worsens upon waking in the morning and subsides with walking or movement.
Because the pain radiates from the hip to the leg, patients often think they have sciatica or a lumbar herniated disc. However, while a herniated disc worsens with movement, sacroiliitis causes pain during rest (lying down) and is relieved by movement.
It is suspected through physical tests (such as the FABER test) where the physician applies pressure to the hip joint from various angles. The definitive diagnosis is made with a Sacroiliac MRI, which shows inflammation (edema) in the joint at the earliest stage.
If the disease has a rheumatic basis, biologic drugs or DMARDs (antirheumatic drugs) are initiated. If the origin is mechanical, NSAID group painkillers, intra-articular cortisone/radiofrequency injections, and physical therapy programs stabilizing the joint are applied.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
