What It Is: A sacroiliac joint injection is a procedure where a mixture of a corticosteroid and a local anesthetic is injected into the sacroiliac joint, which connects the lower spine to the pelvis. This joint can be a source of low back and leg pain. The injection aims to reduce inflammation and provide diagnostic information by determining if the sacroiliac joint is the source of pain.

How It Will Help: The anesthetic provides immediate pain relief while the corticosteroid reduces inflammation over time, potentially alleviating pain and discomfort for a longer period. By reducing pain and inflammation, the injection can improve your ability to perform daily activities and participate in physical therapy.

Why It Is Safe: Sacroiliac joint injections are considered safe and are performed using imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy, to ensure accurate placement of the medication. The procedure involves minimal risks, with the most common being temporary soreness or swelling at the injection site. Serious complications are rare, making this a relatively safe option for diagnosing and managing sacroiliac joint pain.