Exam time: 40-60 minutes
Most exams require the patient to remain at our facility 30 minutes after the procedure.
Irritation in the sacroiliac joint in the pelvis can lead to obscure low back pain and/or deep buttock pain. A diagnostic and therapeutic injection into the sacroiliac joint can identify the source of the irritation while delivering medication for short- or long-term pain relief.
PREPARATION/RESTRICTIONS:
- Stop blood thinners 4-5 days in advance; stop pain medication 8 hours in advance.
- The patient should bring along any previous imaging studies on film or cd related to the body part being treated.
- The patient will need a driver.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Side effects of the steroid medications--which affect only 5% of patients and disappear within 1-3 days--include facial flushing, insomnia, occasional low-grade fever, and an increase in blood sugar.
Due to the effects of certain medications, the patient's driving reflexes may be impaired. Consequently, he/she should arrange for a driver in advance or request assistance from our facility.