I have pain on one side of my lower back, just above my bum. What could it be?
If your pain is on one side of your lower back, just above your left or right buttock (around the little dimple area), it could be coming from your sacroiliac (SI) joint.
Don’t worry—this is actually very common. SI joint pain is responsible for up to 30% of all lower back pain.
What causes it?
There are many possible causes. Some come from within the body, including:
- Arthritis
- Infection
- In rare cases, certain cancers
Others are more mechanical, such as:
- Sprained or injured ligaments
- Tight or inflamed muscles and fascia around the joint
Who is more at risk?
You may be more likely to develop SI joint pain if you have:
- A fall or injury (trauma)
- One leg that’s longer than the other
- Scoliosis
- Previous lower back fusion surgery
- Poor lifting technique
- Pregnancy
How do you know if it might be your SI joint?
Ask yourself these questions:
- Does it hurt to stand on one leg, making walking or climbing stairs painful?
- Does sitting for long periods make it worse?
- Does it hurt when turning over in bed or moving from lying down to sitting?
- Does the pain travel into your buttock, thigh, or down the leg on the same side?
If you answered “yes” to several of these, your SI joint could be contributing to your pain.
What can you do at home?
- Rest from activities that make the pain worse.
- If it’s safe for you, anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) may help. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist first to make sure they’re suitable for you.
How can a physiotherapist help?
A physiotherapist can:
Find your local physio www.madetomovepilates.co.uk
- Help reduce your pain
- Improve how your SI joint moves and functions
- Reduce the strain on the joint
- Use hands-on treatment, including joint mobilisation or manipulation where appropriate
- Prescribe exercises to strengthen your core, glutes, pelvic floor, hamstrings and hip muscles to improve stability
- Release tight muscles and fascia around the area to help you move more comfortably
The good news is that most people improve with the right treatment and a targeted exercise programme.
