Date Published: October/November 2013
Author: Max W. Cohen, MD, FAAOS
Low back pain is a common problem as people age. However, it has been esti -mated that up to 25% of all pain in the lower back is actually caused by problems with the sacroiliac (SI) joint. SI joint pain often mimics the symptoms of low back pain. As a result, physicians frequently overlook the diagnosis of sacroiliac joint disease.
The SI joint, located in the pelvis, links the iliac bone (pelvis) to the sacrum (lowest part of the spine above the tailbone). This joint transfers weight and forces between the up-per body and the legs. It is essential for shock absorption, helping to prevent impact forces during walking from reaching the spine. It is stabilized by a network of ligaments and muscles, which also limitmoti on.