SI joints, or sacroiliac joints, are the connecting point of the sacrum and the iliac bones. This area of the back is held together by ligaments and has very little movement in it. The SI joint connects the spine to the pelvis. This joint will take on the entire body weight when you stand. The stress of your weight can cause damage to this joint. SI joint damage can also be caused by inflammation, arthritis or hormones.
Treatment Options
When your SI joint begins to cause pain, there are several options for treatment. They include medications, injections, surgeries and physical therapy. There are also exercises that can be done to relieve pain or to prevent pain from occurring.
Exercises
Stretching that focuses on the hip area will be of great benefit to the SI joint. Begin by lying on the floor on your back. Bring one knee to the chest and hold for 2 seconds and release. Repeat 10 times for each leg.
Another exercise is to lie on the floor on your back and bend your knees with feet on the floor. Keeping your back firmly on the floor, move your knees as far as they comfortably can to each side. Work up to eight times each side.
Exercise 3: Lie on the floor on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Keeping your hips flat on the floor, spread your knees outward towards the floor. Then bring them together. Repeat eight to 10 times.
Finally, lie on the floor on your stomach and press your pelvis into the floor. Lift your upper body off the floor with your arms. Hold for 15 seconds and lower yourself back to the floor. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
Word of Caution
Be careful when performing exercises for the SI joint to not aggravate the condition by stretching too much or too far. Always consult a physician before beginning an exercise program.
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