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Glossary

What Is the Sacroiliac Joint?

Sacroiliac Joint is the connection between the sacrum at the base of the spine and the ilium of the pelvis. Each person has a joint on both sides. These joints transfer forces between the upper body and legs while allowing limited movement during standing, walking, bending, and other weight-bearing activities.

Quick Facts About Sacroiliac Joint

Category

Pelvic joint

Used for

Assessing pelvic and lower back movement

Common confusion

Pain may resemble hip or lower back pain

Also called

SI joint, Sacroiliac articulation

Often discussed with

Chiropractic Adjustment

Key Takeaways About Sacroiliac Joint

  • The joint connects the sacrum with each side of the pelvis.
  • Its movement is small but supports weight transfer.
  • Nearby muscles, nerves, and hip structures can create similar symptoms.

How Sacroiliac Joint Works

Hands hold a pelvic bone model beside an X-ray tablet, notebook, tools, and a small spine model on a desk

Sacroiliac Joint function depends on the fit between the sacrum and the pelvic bones. Strong ligaments support the connection, while nearby muscles help control movement. The joint does not move through a large range. Its main mechanical role is to transfer load between the trunk and legs during activities such as walking or rising from a chair.

Related glossary terms: Lumbar Spine, Pelvic Tilt, Joint Mobilization.

A clinician may examine pelvic motion, nearby muscle tension, gait, and the location of discomfort. Findings from the lumbar spine and hip also help separate sacroiliac joint concerns from problems in nearby structures. A chiropractic adjustment may address restricted joint motion as part of a broader physical assessment. The adjustment does not treat every source of pain in the pelvic region.

A woman gives a back massage to a man lying on a table beside a pelvis model and computer monitor

From the Advanced Injury Care Clinic team

When we assess the sacroiliac joint, we examine how the pelvis, lumbar spine, hips, and surrounding muscles work together. We use movement findings and symptom location to guide a chiropractic adjustment when restricted motion appears relevant. We also consider nearby structures that can produce similar complaints.

Sacroiliac Joint in Practice: A Real-World Example

A person may feel discomfort near one side of the lower back after lifting or prolonged sitting. During a chiropractic adjustment visit, we assess pelvic and lumbar movement before deciding whether the sacroiliac joint is a relevant part of the care plan.

Related Terms

Lumbar Spine

Lumbar Spine is the lower section of the spinal column between the thoracic spine and sacrum…

Pelvic Tilt

Pelvic Tilt is a change in the position of the pelvis that alters its angle relative…

Joint Mobilization

Joint Mobilization is a hands-on manual therapy technique that applies controlled movement to a joint to…

Range Of Motion

Range Of Motion is the available movement at a joint or group of joints, measured through…

Advanced Injury Care Clinic

Have Questions About Sacroiliac Joint?

Contact Advanced Injury Care Clinic for practical guidance on Sacroiliac Joint and related chiropractor work in Hendersonville.

The health and wellness information on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not create a provider-patient relationship. Always consult a qualified licensed provider in Hendersonville, TN, United States about your specific condition before making care decisions. Individual results vary.

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