The sacroiliac (SI) joints connect the base of the spine to the pelvis and are estimated to be responsible for a meaningful share of chronic low back pain cases, though they are frequently overlooked because standard imaging often appears normal. An SI joint injection delivers local anesthetic and a corticosteroid directly into the joint, both to confirm it as the source of pain and to reduce inflammation. It is often considered for one-sided low back and buttock pain that has not responded to conservative care.

If you are considering SI joint injections, our team in Bryan, TX will review your history and imaging to confirm whether SI joint injections are the right fit. Most patients receive SI joint injections as part of a broader, personalized care plan.

Learn more about sciatica from MedlinePlus, the health information service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

The patient lies face down while the physician uses fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance to advance a needle into the joint, often confirming correct placement with contrast dye before injecting the medication. The procedure typically takes 15-25 minutes with local anesthesia and usually does not require sedation.

SI Joint Pain & Sciatica • Back Pain

Mild soreness at the injection site for a few days is common, and some patients notice a brief flare of pain before the steroid’s anti-inflammatory effect takes hold, typically within 3-7 days. Relief commonly lasts from several weeks up to a few months, and repeat injections or progression to radiofrequency ablation may be recommended if pain recurs.