Hip And Sacroiliac Pain
The hip is the joint between the femur bone and the pelvis. The sacroiliac (SI) is the joint between the ilium and sacrum where the pelvis meets the spinal column. These joints are common sources of pain and dysfunction. Loss of motion, muscle weakness, and lack of neuromuscular coordination in this area of the body can produce pain anywhere from the low back down to the foot. Examples of medical conditions that can contribute to hip and SI joint pain are bursitis, arthritis, tendonitis, fractures, joint sprains, positional faults of joint surfaces, and soft tissue strains.
Hip and SI joint problems are diagnosed via orthopedic physical examination, functional tests, and imaging such as X-ray or MRI when needed. Physical therapists and medical doctors working in cooperation can diagnose and treat virtually any hip or SI joint condition. Treatments performed by physical therapists include manual joint mobilizations or manipulations, neuromuscular reeducation, stretching and strengthening exercises, therapeutic ultrasound, massage or ASTYM (augmented soft tissue mobilization), electrical stimulation, taping or bracing, gait and postural training, orthotic fabrication and/or fitting, heat and/or cryotherapy. If needed a medical doctor may prescribe medication, order imaging tests, perform injections, or recommend a surgical intervention such as a total hip arthroplasty (THA) or hip resurfacing procedure.