Why did your doctor perform this procedure?
This procedure is often done to help find the cause of your back and leg pain and this can assist in the treatment of the pain.  The sacroiliac joint is a large joint that is formed by the sacrum (lower bones of the spine) and the pelvis.  Injections of local anesthetic and steroid into the joint will effectively relieve the pain if it is due to the sacroiliac joint.

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How is the procedure performed?
You may or may not have an intravenous (IV) line 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 fluoroscopy (a type of x-ray machine), as this helps your doctor guide the needle to its correct 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, you will be watched closely by our nurses in the recovery room.

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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.  The steroid will start working in 24-36 hours, but may take up to one week to reduce the inflammation in the joint and decrease your level of pain.  You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure.  You will be able to continue all normal activities the next day.

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What are the side effects?
You may experience a small amount of bruising, bleeding or swelling at the site of the injection.  It is best to apply ice to the injection site for 20-30 minutes three or four times a day for the first few days after the injection.  Please continue your regular medications.  If you develop any other problems, please call our office at 742-7030 so that we may recommend further action.