Sacroiliac Injection

A minimally invasive procedure to relieve groin, hip, and leg pain

The sacroiliac joint connects the sacrum, an area at the base of the spine, with the iliac crest, one of the bones of the hip. If this joint becomes inflamed, it can cause pain in several areas, including the:

• Abdomen
• Buttocks
• Groin
• Hip
• Leg

A sacroiliac injection involves injecting a steroid medication into the sacroiliac joint. This reduces the joint’s inflammation and relieves pain. Many patients experience pain relief for several months after their injections, and some experience permanent pain relief.

Pain Management Service, Newton-Wellesley Ambulatory Care Center
159 Wells Avenue
Newton, MA 02459
Phone: 617-243-6142

What to Expect From Your Sacroiliac Injection

When you arrive for your procedure, one of our nurses will speak with you about what your pain is like and how you manage daily activities. We’ll record the following vital health information:

• Allergies
• Blood pressure
• Brief health history
• Medications you’re currently taking
• Pulse
• Temperature
• Weight

It’s especially important to tell your nurse if you:

• Are allergic to contrast dye, Betadine (iodine), or latex
• Currently take blood thinners
• Have diabetes or could be pregnant

Next, you’ll discuss the procedure with your doctor and go into the X-ray room, where we’ll help you onto a table. Once you’re comfortable, we’ll clean your skin with an antiseptic and numb it with a local anesthetic. Next, your doctor will use X-ray guidance to place a small needle into your sacroiliac joint. We may use a small amount of contrast dye to make sure the needle is in the correct location. Once the needle is in place, your doctor will inject the steroid into the joint. The entire procedure will take only a few minutes.

You should plan to stay with us for 15 to 20 minutes after your sacroiliac injection, as the anesthetic can make your legs feel weak or numb. During this time, a nurse will go over any questions you may have and review your discharge instructions and required follow-up care.

When You Go Home After Your Sacroiliac Injection

After you return home from your procedure, try to rest and avoid any activities that might aggravate your pain. You likely will be able to return to work and exercise the next day.

Some patients experience more pain at first when the anesthetic wears off because the steroid can irritate nerves in the area. Place ice on your injection site and take over-the-counter pain medications to ease any pain.

Many patients experience pain relief after their first or second sacroiliac injection, while some patients will need three injections. Don’t be discouraged if your pain doesn’t go away immediately. You may need to follow up with your doctor or to have another injection in two to four weeks.

Talk to your doctor for more information about receiving a referral for a sacroiliac injection, or call us at 617-243-6142 to request an appointment.