Confirmed SI source
Offered once a diagnostic block has implicated the sacroiliac joint — treating a proven source, not a suspicion.
Treatments · Interventional Pain Management
SI Joint Injection
A targeted injection to the sacroiliac joint, used within interventional pain management.
What it is
Treating the joint that links spine to pelvis
An SI joint injection places anti-inflammatory medication into the sacroiliac joint under imaging guidance. Because the joint moves little but bears every step, calming its inflammation can relieve buttock and leg pain that mimics disc disease.
Inflammation control
Corticosteroid medication calms the irritated joint and surrounding ligaments, easing buttock and leg pain.
A window for rehab
Reduced pain lets stabilising physiotherapy for the pelvis progress — which is where lasting benefit is built.
Surgery-sparing option
For suitable SI pain, targeted injections can postpone or remove the need for larger procedures.
What to expect
A brief, precise appointment
The procedure itself is short and performed with you awake, so you can report what you feel throughout.
01
Guided placement
The needle is positioned in the narrow SI joint under fluoroscopy or CT, with contrast confirming the spread.
02
Medication effect
Anaesthetic gives immediate feedback; the anti-inflammatory component builds over the days that follow.
03
Aftercare
Avoid strenuous loading briefly, then move as advised. Report fever, worsening pain or new neurology promptly.
Common questions
Things patients ask us
How long does the relief last?
It varies widely between individuals. The injection is judged by the function it restores while active, alongside a stabilising rehab programme.
How many injections will I need?
As few as achieve the goal. Your surgeon spaces treatments and stops when they no longer add benefit.
What are the risks?
Brief soreness and flushing are the commonest effects. Infection, bleeding and nerve injury are uncommon; blood thinners, diabetes and allergies are reviewed beforehand.
What if the pain returns?
Recurrence informs the next step honestly — whether that is a repeat injection, radiofrequency options where applicable, or a different diagnosis to revisit.
Could this help you?
Send your imaging and history. The ProSpine team will review your case and respond with the next steps.
Free · No obligation · Reviewed by the ProSpine team