Why was this Procedure Performed?

This procedure is often done to help find the cause of your back and leg pain and then can assist in the treatment of the pain. The sacroiliac joint is a large joint that is formed by the sacrum (the lower bones of the spine) and the pelvis. It can commonly cause low back and leg pain in up to 30% of patients. Injection of local anesthetic and steroid into the joint will effectively relieve the pain if it is due to the sacroiliac joint.

How is the Procedure Performed?

You may or may not have an intravenous line (IV) inserted before the procedure. A small needle will be inserted in your lower back near the spine and into the sacroiliac joint. The needle will always be inserted under X-ray as this helps your doctor guide the needle to the exact location. When the needle is in the correct position, local anesthetic and steroid will be injected into the joint to temporarily "turn off" the nerves that transmit pain from the joint and the steroid will work to decrease the inflammation. After the procedure, the nurses in the recovery room will watch you closely.

What can you expect after the Procedure?

After the procedure is performed, you may or may not notice improved pain relief. The local anesthetic will numb the joint for about 2-8 hours depending on the type of anesthetic used. It may take up to 24-36 hours until the steroid begins to help relieve the inflammation and pain. So therefore you may notice a return of your pain between the time the local anesthetic wears off and. the steroid takes effect. You will be asked to keep a detailed pain diary to help you keep track of the level of pain you experience after the procedure. You and your doctor will discuss this at your next visit. Rarely, this procedure may cause some numbness or weakness of your leg or buttock and for this reason you will need someone to drive you home. If your leg is numb from the procedure, you will need to avoid any unassisted walking, climbing or exertion until the numbness and weakness wears off.

What if you have worrisome side effects or other concerns?

You may experience a small amount of bruising, bleeding or swelling at the injection site. It is best to apply ice compresses in the first 24 hours followed by heat after 24 hours in short durations, usually 20 minutes at a time. Please continue your regular medications. If you are experiencing other difficulties or side effects please call our office at 502-PAIN so that we may recommend further action or please go to the nearest emergency room for evaluation.