Sacroiliac sprain: an overlooked cause of back pain

Am Fam Physician. 1992 Nov;46(5):1459-63.

Abstract

Since sacroiliac sprain syndrome is not a common disorder, it may be overlooked as a cause of low back pain. Even though the sacroiliac joint is very strong, it can incur painful injury. The diagnosis of sacroiliac sprain syndrome requires more than just tenderness on palpation of the sacroiliac area. Certain maneuvers, such as Patrick's test and the sacroiliac compression test, are useful in establishing the diagnosis. Proper treatment consists of bed rest, heat, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants. Physical therapy and manipulation may also help. In recalcitrant cases, injection of the sacroiliac joint with a corticosteroid and a local anesthetic can be effective.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / administration & dosage
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use
  • Bed Rest
  • Causality
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Family Practice / methods*
  • Hot Temperature / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intra-Articular
  • Low Back Pain / epidemiology
  • Low Back Pain / etiology*
  • Neurologic Examination
  • Physical Examination
  • Sacroiliac Joint / injuries*
  • Sprains and Strains / complications
  • Sprains and Strains / diagnosis*
  • Sprains and Strains / therapy

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones