Hip and Sacroiliac (Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction)

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction and low back pain in school aged children. Mierau DR Cassidy, J.D. et al. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics 1984; 7(2):81-84.

SI joint dysfunction has been implicated as a common cause of back pain in more than 30% of children.

Low force method of spinal correction and fixation of the sacroiliac joint. Gemmell HA, Heng BJ. The Amer Chiro 1987; Nov:28-32.

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction was found in 57% of patients presenting to a chiropractic center.

Primary SI dysfunction arises from trauma such as blows, falls on the buttock, or from attempts to save oneself from falling.  Knocking the SI joints out of place can affect the structural integrity of the entire spine.  The SI joints themselves are held in place by small ligaments, which can be stretched out of position if there is a traumatic dislocation.

Secondary SI dysfunction comes on slowly, producing a chronic misalignment.  Muscle atrophy on one side and overdevelopment on the other may be associated with a scoliosis, pelvic tilt or an actual shortening of one leg. Over time the entire spine can be affected, and one shoulder blade or one side of the ribcage may appear more pronounced than the other.  Eventually, uneven pressure on the spine damage discs. The goal of care is to restore a normal relationship between the sacrum and ilium and to maintain it with suitable support.