Why Do I Have Buttock Pain and Sacroiliitis?
Sacroiliitis is a term used to describe an inflammation of either or both of the sacroiliac joints found in the lower back. These joints connect your lower spine and pelvis.
Sacroiliitis can be hard to identify. Symptoms are not much different from a herniated disk, strained muscles and sciatica. A disease called spondyloarthropathies is also similar. Spondyloarthropathies causes inflammatory arthritis in the spine.
Someone with sacroiliitis is likely to experience buttock pain, back stiffness,and possibly pain in the thighs. Any movement involving the lower back or hips will cause discomfort, which may reach down as far as the thighs.
Someone with this condition often finds it painful to walk, and will probably limp.
There are a number of possible causes for sacroiliitis. A traumatic injury to the lower back or buttock area is a frequent cause. Pregnancy and certain kinds of infections are also causes of sacroiliitis. A condition known as ankylosing spondylitis is another cause. So is degenerative arthritis.
If you have sacroiliitis, your doctor will discuss several possible treatment options with you. The most appropriate option usually depends on the severity of your case.
Rest is appropriate in all cases. It gives your body time to heal itself. Rest also reduces the possibility of aggravation.
Exercises will help reduce some of your discomfort while increasing your range of motion.
There are a number of medications that are used for sacroiliitis treatment. Typically, these medications include corticosteroids, NSAIDs, DMARDs and TNF inhibitors.
Corticosteroids reduce pain and inflammation. They also slow joint damage, but shouldn’t be used for extended periods of time or they can cause serious side effects.
NSAIDs or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are also extremely effective for relieving pain by reducing swelling and inflammation. There have been some side effects associated with NSAIDs, including high blood pressure, kidney and liver damage, and stomach problems like bleeding and indigestion.
Stroke and heart attack can also be a side effect in some individuals, so NSAIDs should only be taken only under the direct supervision of your doctor.
Typical NSAIDs your doctor may suggest include naproxen and indomethacin.
DMARDs are another medication used to treat sacroiliitis. DMARD stands for disease modifying antirheumatic drugs. They work to limit joint damage. These are most beneficial when used in the early stages of sacroiliitis to help slow down the disease and prevent permanent damage.
Lastly, there are TNF inhibitors. These reduce stiffness, swelling and pain by blocking a cell protein that can cause inflammation.
Unfortunately, some of the medications used to fight sacroiliitis are very expensive. Doctors and patients often choose to use them only when all other treatment options have failed.
However, sometimes buttock pain and back pain caused by sacroiliitis can be so distressing that patients will pay the expense.
Many people who suffer aches and pains as they get older simply assume such discomfort is a natural part of growing older. You should not make this assumption. Anyone experiencing any type of back pain or buttock pain, especially sacroiliitis should see their health care provider for a diagnosis.
As is the case with so many other conditions, sacroiliitis is easier to treat in the beginning before permanent joint damage occurs.
[resource]Related topics: sacroillitis treatment and buttock pain and sciatica. Neal Kennedy is a former radio and TV talk show host. To read more of his articles, click on buttock pain causes.


