The sacroiliac joint joins the sacrum to the pelvis.  The sacrum (tailbone) connects on the right and left sides to the pelvic bones to form the sacroiliac joints.  The sacroiliac joint is highly dependent on its strong ligamentous structure for support and stability.  Common symptoms of sacroiliac joint dysfunction include lower back pain, buttocks pain, sciatic leg pain, groin pain, hip pain, urinary frequency, and transient numbness, prickling, or tingling.   Pain can range from dull aching to sharp and stabbing and increases with physical activity.   Symptoms also worsen with prolonged or sustained positions (i.e., sitting, standing, lying).  Bending forward, stair climbing, hill climbing, and rising from a seated position can also provoke pain.  Patients with severe and disabling sacroiliac joint dysfunction can suffer from insomnia and depression.

Keeping activity to a minimum can help with rehabilitation.   The more time the injury has to rest, the better. For support during activity, you can use a sacroiliac belt or lumbar brace.  Physical therapy is an important part of the healing process.  It will help relieve pain and increase strength.  Talk to your doctor or physical therapist for exercises to practice.

Learn more at SpineHealth.com and Wikipedia.