SI Joint injections in North Texas

Sacroiliac joint (SI) injections, also known as a sacroiliac joint block, are primarily used to diagnose or treat low back pain and/or sciatica symptoms that are caused by sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Your sacroiliac joints are located next to the spine, connecting the sacrum with your hips on both sides of your body. Joint inflammation in either of your sacrum joints can cause back pain. Dr. Kendall Carll, a board-certified North Texas spine surgeon recommends sacroiliac joint injections for two reasons: to help diagnose the source of his patient's pain and to provide pain relief. With more than 15 years of experience treating many causes of back pain, Dr. Carll is passionate about providing minimally invasive solutions that help restore a full quality of life.

Patients who have had a tumor resection, back deformities, infections near the spine, failed spinal fusions, or a documented allergy to other type of injections, are not candidates for SI joint injections. Those who will receive the best results from SI joint injections:

• Have been diagnosed with degenerative sacroiliitis
• Are suffering from SI joint disruption
• Have attempted other nonsurgical, conservative treatments for back pain
• Are experiencing lower back, hip, or groin pain
• Pain in the back that worsens when pressure is applied to the SI joint

Dr. Carll will refer you to the office of a trusted pain management specialist for this treatment. The SI joint injection is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, under local or general anesthesia, with the patient lying flat on their back. A pillow may be placed underneath the hips for comfort. While monitoring your vitals, the doctor will use x-ray technology (fluoroscopy) to inject a contrast dye into your SI joint to help verify the exact treatment area. Once needle placement has been verified, the treatment or diagnostic medications will be injected.

Two types of medications are typically used:

A local anesthetic to provide immediate pain relief, confirming the sacroiliac joint is, in fact, the source of the patient's pain.

An anti-inflammatory medication that helps reduce inflammation within the SI joint, also alleviating the pain for a longer period of time.

Patients often remark that they feel immediate pain relief. This is due to the local anesthetic injected during the procedure and will only last for a few hours. In most situations, your previous level of pain will return and may remain for 3 – 5 days. You will need a ride home from our facility following your injection as it could cause some temporary weakness in your legs. Spine Care of North Texas recommends patients rest and relax the rest of the day following injections. You should feel well enough to return to work the following day. Should you feel discomfort near the treatment area, feel free to use ice packs as needed. Pain relief following SI injections can last several months. However, Dr. Carll may recommend additional injections or supplemental treatment, such as physical therapy, to help improve the underlying cause of your back condition.

Dr. Carll understands that back pain can several affect your life in many ways. SI injections can help decrease pain and increase your quality of life. If you are suffering from back pain caused by SI joint dysfunction and you are ready for a treatment that works, schedule a consultation with Spine Care of North Texas at your earliest convenience. Our skilled team looks forward to helping you take back your life.