Sacroiliac (SI) joint injections are a common treatment for pain originating from the SI joint. These injections typically contain a local anesthetic, often combined with a corticosteroid, and are administered directly into the joint to alleviate pain and inflammation. The effectiveness of the injection varies among individuals, and some patients may not experience significant or lasting relief. When this intervention fails to provide the anticipated outcome, further evaluation and alternative management strategies become necessary.
The failure of SI joint injections to provide relief is significant because it can help refine the diagnosis and guide subsequent treatment decisions. Diagnostic injections, where the primary goal is to confirm the SI joint as the pain source, are particularly valuable. If pain does not diminish after a diagnostic injection, it suggests the SI joint may not be the primary pain generator, and attention should be directed to identifying other potential sources. A lack of efficacy also underscores the complex and multifactorial nature of lower back and pelvic pain, highlighting the need for comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment plans.