The sacroiliac joint, often called the SI joint, actually consists of two articulations, one on either side of the pelvis near the midline. Here, the sacrum --- the lowest part of the spine --- joins the ilium, or main pelvic bone. It is not designed to permit significant movement, and when runners injure the area, rehabilitation tends to be a lengthy process, requiring weeks or even months.
Causes of Injury
Most SI joint injuries result from trauma, such as sudden and excessive twisting or landing very hard, according to "Running Times" magazine. Running on an already damaged SI joint almost always worsens the the issue, although you can probably run through mild SI joint injuries. Having weak core muscles can precipitate SI joint problems. Pain owing to an SI joint injury is usually strongest in the lower back and hip. Sufficiently serious trauma can cause a joint dislocation and damage to the surrounding ligaments.
Early Intervention
If you've hurt your SI joint, you can try one of several interventions at home before seeking the services of a physician. The Stretching Institute suggests applying ice to the affected area and taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Check with your doctor to determine a safe but effective dose. If you're still able to run with relatively little pain, be sure to stretch beforehand and do a thorough warmup. Hip-strengthening exercises can help prevent the problem from recurring.
Further Intervention
If home remedies don't do the trick, your physician or physical therapist can address the injury in a number of ways. According to Sportsinjuryclinic.net, once your doctor has ruled out pre-existing pathology as a cause of your pain, she may employ electrotherapy, recommend sports massage, attempt to straighten out the pelvis by physically manipulating it or send you to a specialist for specific rehabilitation program. If all else fails, your doctor may offer a corticosteroid injection.
Cross-training while Injured
When one of your feet is planted on the ground, the stress on your SI joints is at a maximum. Therefore, pool running or aqua-jogging, a favorite method of cross-training among injured runners, is an excellent alternative, because being in the water eliminates biomechanical impact forces. Pete Pfitzinger, a two-time Olympic marathoner and exercise physiologist, points out that at any given level or exertion, your pulse rate during water running will be roughly 10 beats per minute slower than on land.
