Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction - Melissa Biffi (Paladin Biokineticists)

What is the (SI) Joint?

The sacroiliac (SI) joints are formed by the connection of the sacrum (triangular-shaped bone at the base of the spine) and the right and left iliac bones (two large bones that make up the pelvis). While most of the bones (vertebrae) of the spine are mobile, the sacrum is made up of five vertebrae that are fused together and do not move. The SI joints connect the spine to the pelvis and the sacrum and the iliac bones are held together by a group of strong ligaments.

There is relatively little motion at the SI joints, most of the motion in the area of the pelvis occurs either at the hips or the lumbar spine. When and individual is sitting upright of standing these joints  need to support the entire weight of the upper body, which places a large amount of stress across them and this can lead to wearing of the cartilage of the SI joints if the supporting muscles and ligaments are not strong enough.

Causes of SI joint dysfunction

SI joint dysfunction is a term used to refer to a condition that causes pain in the SI joints from a specific cause. There are a few common causes of SI joint dysfunction and these are conditions that change the normal walking pattern which places additional stress on the SI joints, This could include a leg length discrepancy (one leg longer than the other), or pain in the hip, knee, ankle or foot.

Degenerative arthritis is a common cause of SI joint dysfunction. As with most other joints in the body, the SI joints have a cartilage layer covering the bone. The cartilage allows for some movement and acts as a shock absorber between the bones. When this cartilage is damaged or worn away, the bones begin to rub on each other, and degenerative arthritis occurs. This is the most common cause of SI joint dysfunction.

Another common cause of SI joint dysfunction is pregnancy. During pregnancy, hormones are released in the female's body that allows for relaxation of ligaments which prepares the body for childbirth. Relaxation of the ligaments holding the SI joints together allows for increased motion in the joints and can lead to increased stresses and abnormal wear. The additional weight and walking pattern associated with pregnancy also places increased stress on the SI joints, 

What are symptoms of SI joint dysfunction?

The most common symptoms of SI joint dysfunction is sacroiliac pain. Pain in the SI joint is often related to either too much motion (hypermobility) or not enough (hypomobility) in the joint. Individuals often experience pain in the lower back or the back of the hips and can also be present in the groin and thighs. The pain is typically worse with standing and walking and improved when lying down. Inflammation and arthritis in the SI joint can also cause stiffness and a burning sensation in the pelvis.

How can Biokinetics help SI joint dysfunction?

 Biokinetics will focus on prescribing a specific individualised exercise regimen according to the needs of each person. The program will consist of low-impact aerobic activities , range of motion exercises for flexibility ,strength training  to improve muscle tone and stretching exercises. Exercise can help reduce pain and fatigue and improve muscle and bone strength. It is very important that the correct exercises be prescribed and done obediently, as incorrect exercises; a lack of effective management of SI Joint dysfunction and poor compliance of the individual can lead to progression of and increase pain of the SI Joint.

Melissa Biffi obtained her BCom Sports Management Degree at the University of Johannesburg and completed her Honours in Biokinetics at the University of Witwatersrand.

She has a special interest in dancing and other sports such as soccer and hockey, which lead to her interest in orthopaedic rehabilitation, particularly knee rehabilitation.

Melissa is also very passionate about working with children in specific areas such as rehabilitation and development of individuals from very young ages all the way through to adolescents.

Melissa can be contacted on 082 822 9677 or melissabiffi@kinetics.co.za 

Joint pain? Let's get exercising! - Natasha Eekhout (Paladin Biokineticists)

Who needs a weather report when you have joint pain right?

Joint pain is one of those annoying conditions that can stop life and it’s enjoyments in its tracks. It is extremely varied and is painful yes, where even simple daily activities such as getting in and out of your car is a sharp reminder of your limitations. So much for gardening, walking your dog and playing soccer with your kids outside, you may think. Wrong! Just because you have joint pain, does not mean that you have been given permission to sit on your couch and rot away in front of the television, seeing as you have the perception that exercise will only aggravate your condition.

Joint pain is believe it or not, manageable and in some instances can be treated with exercise, allowing you to return to the usual activities pain free, that you once took for granted. Common causes include arthritis, age, previous injuries, overuse and most importantly inactivity.

Yep it may be tempting to eliminate physical activity because of the pain however, this will only worsen the condition, resulting in further weakening of muscles, bones and joints. Exercise is one of the best natural and cost-free remedies. The right exercises need to be performed correctly and can even sidestep surgery. Weight bearing exercises are especially important for strengthening joints, but should be done progressively with an additional walking or cardiovascular program.

Obviously before starting any form of exercise, you need to consult with your doctor first. It may be recommended that you attend supervised exercise sessions to ensure specific, individualised progressive exercise regimes, focussing on correct technique. That’s what us biokineticists are good at too, developing and mastering a joint pain relief exercise plan for you! Happy Exercising! 

Natasha completed her BSc Sports Science undergraduate degree at The University of Johannesburg and her BHSc honours degree in Biokinetics at The University of the Witwatersrand. 

She has a passion for a variety of sports in particular soccer, tennis, running and kickboxing which have contributed to a strong interest in orthopaedic rehabilitation and working with athletes. Other areas of focus include diabetic and cardiac rehabilitation, as well as weight loss and a keen enthusiasm for working with children of all ages. 

Natasha can be contacted on 082 476 9727 or natashaeekhout@kinetics.co.za