Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction Success Story
The Problem
When this patient first came to Revive Physio, they had been experiencing right-sided low back pain that radiated into the buttock, outer thigh and calf following a fall.
The pain was making everyday activities increasingly difficult. Walking, prolonged standing and getting out of bed in the morning all aggravated their symptoms, while swinging the leg provided temporary relief. The pain travelling into the leg had left them concerned that they may have sciatica.
What We Found
Following a comprehensive physiotherapy assessment, it became clear that the symptoms were not being caused by sciatica, but by sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction.
Reduced movement and irritation around the sacroiliac joint were referring pain into the buttock and leg, closely mimicking nerve-related symptoms.
Identifying the true source of the pain allowed us to develop a treatment plan that addressed the underlying cause rather than simply treating the symptoms.
The Treatment
A personalised treatment programme was created, including:
Education and advice on managing symptoms and reducing irritation of the sacroiliac joint
Hands-on sacroiliac joint and lumbar spine mobilisations to restore normal movement
A progressive rehabilitation programme to improve pelvic stability, mobility and strength
Targeted exercises to restore normal movement patterns and reduce the likelihood of recurrence
The Outcome
As treatment progressed, the pain steadily reduced and everyday activities became much more comfortable.
Walking improved, getting out of bed was no longer painful and the pain radiating into the buttock, thigh and calf completely resolved.
By the end of treatment, the patient was pain free, had returned to normal daily activities and was able to move confidently again without the fear of symptoms returning.
Take Home Message
Pain travelling into the buttock or leg isn't always caused by sciatica or a slipped disc. Conditions such as sacroiliac joint dysfunction can produce very similar symptoms but require a different treatment approach.
At Revive Physio in Mosley Common, Worsley, we carry out a thorough assessment to identify the true cause of your pain before creating a personalised treatment plan.
If you're struggling with low back pain, buttock pain, leg pain or suspected sciatica, physiotherapy may help identify the underlying cause and get you back to doing the things you enjoy—pain free.