What Are the Different Sacroiliitis Treatment Options?

Sacroiliitis is a painful condition and in involves the joints (sacroiliac joints) being inflamed. These joints are responsible for connecting your pelvis and lower spine. When these joints are inflamed, the pain felt is in the lower back or pelvis. Some people will even feel it going down one of their legs, or sometimes both. It is important to make an appointment with your doctor if you suspect this condition because the pain can have a negative impact on quality of life.

Which Medications Might My Doctor Prescribe?

Your doctor will probably start by trying over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If these fail to provide relief, non-narcotic prescription pain relievers are often tried, such as tramadol. If these fail to bring relief, narcotic pain relievers, such as oxycodone or hydrocodone may be tried on a short-term basis.

This condition is often associated with muscle spasms. Because of this, muscle relaxers may be tried to try and bring relief. Cyclobenzaprine is a commonly prescribed one.

Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs. These can be injected directly into the painful, inflamed joint which is helpful in providing relief. Personally, I found these injections very helpful for sacroiliitis. However, these are used sparingly and cannot be done but a few times a year. Steroids have the potential of weakening the tendons and bones of the joint, so the use of them has to be spaced out.

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors may be tried when it is determined that your sacroiliitis is associated with ankylosing spondylitis. Commonly prescribed TNF inhibitors include Humira, Enbrel and Remicade.

Another medication that may be prescribed when associated with ankylosing spondylitis is a type known as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Methotrexate and sulfasalazine are commonly prescribed DMARDs.

Therapies that May be Used

Many patients find that physical therapy is beneficial in helping to alleviate pain and other symptoms. A physical therapist will work with you to help improve muscle stability via strengthening exercises and joint flexibility via stretching exercises and range-of-motion exercises.

Other Procedures

When all of the above methods fail, surgical procedures may be considered. Radiofrequency denervation is used to destroy or damage the nerve tissue that has been determined to be the cause of your pain. I have had this done and personally did not find it effective, but I know several patients who have found this incredibly effective.

An implanted electrical stimulator is another option. This is implanted into your sacrum as a pain relief method.