Dr. Gregory Kolwaite

Joint injury may require exercise, icing at home


Question:
My doctor told me that I have a strained sacroiliac muscle. What is a sacroiliac, and how do I treat it?


Answer:
The sacroiliac is not a muscle but rather the posterior part of the pelvis that is between the lower back and the hip joints. Sacroiliac joints (right and left) separate the sacrum, which is directly under the lower back, and the ilia, which are the bones under the gluteus or buttocks muscles.

Sacroiliac joints are frequently strained by bending forward from the waist, usually while lifting or setting down a heavy load. Because the sacroiliac is at the center of gravity of the body and is a major weight-bearing joint, injuries to the area can be severe and debilitating.

A strained sacroiliac should be evaluated by a chiropractor, who can check the range of motion and alignment of the joint and determine the proper course of treatment. Treatment usually consists of chiropractic manipulation of the injured joint and surrounding joints to realign the area, ensuring a faster and proper healing. A chiropractor most likely will prescribe icing at home and a regimen of exercises to stabilize and strengthen the sacroiliac joint.

Dr. Gregory Kolwaite operates Adirondack Chiropractic, 4947 Commercial Drive, Yorkville 13495. If you have a question, you can write to him at his office or online at www.adirondackchiro.com or call 768-7578.