Connection Between Arthritis And Sacroiliac Joint Pain

If you have constant low back pain, arthritic changes to your sacroiliac joint might be the reason. The spine is comprised of bones called vertebrae and the vertebrae in the lower spine are called lumbar vertebrae. However, many are unaware of the wedge-formed bone that the lumbar vertebrae rest upon, known as the sacrum.

On one or the other side of the sacrum is a sacroiliac joint which interfaces the pelvic bone. The sacroiliac joints are among the biggest synovial joints in the human body and can be one of the possible causes of lower back pain.

Osteoarthritis

Over 32 million Americans have osteoarthritis (OA), which is characterized as a breakdown of a ligament in a joint. This breakdown can cause pain, swelling, and trouble with movement.

Given the fundamental role that the huge SI joint plays in transferring upper body weight to the lower extremities, it is often implicated in osteoarthritis of the lower back/pelvic region. People who have osteoarthritis in their SI joints often develop osteophytes or bone spikes around the joint, prompting pain and dysfunction.

Rheumatoid joint pain (RA)

While beginning signs of rheumatoid joint inflammation usually affect smaller joints – such as the hands and wrists, it is possible for the sacroiliac joints to be affected, as well.

RA is a condition wherein the immune system attacks various joints in the body, bringing about joint inflammation. The normally delicate coating that encompasses the joints (called synovial covering) becomes abnormally thickened. Signs include joint pain, swelling, and firmness. In addition, patients may also have generalized weakness and flu-like symptoms.

Lupus (SLE)

Numerous areas of the body can be affected by lupus – including skin, blood, kidneys, brain, heart, as well as joints. Women in the age range of 15 to 44 years are at the highest risk of being diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Many patients with SLE develop SI joint pain as one of the side effects.

Receptive joint pain

Inflammation of the sacroiliac joint as well as different parts of the spinal section is also common symptoms of reactive joint pain.

Because of the numerous potential reasons for sacroiliac joint pain, it is fundamental to have a comprehensive evaluation by a Board Certified sacroiliac joint pain NYC doctor.