SI Joint Pain Treatment in Austin, TX

Understanding Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction

The sacroiliac (SI) joints sit at the base of the spine, where the sacrum connects to the left and right pelvic bones. These joints form the critical link between the spine, pelvis, legs, and even arms, helping transfer forces through the body during everyday movements such as standing, walking, running, and lifting. Although the SI joints move only slightly, they play an essential role in providing stability while allowing the pelvis and spine to function together smoothly.

SI joint dysfunction develops when the balance of muscles, ligaments, and movement patterns around the pelvis is disrupted. Tight muscles, weakened stabilizers, ligament strain, or abnormal movement mechanics can all place excessive stress on the joint. Because the body functions as an interconnected system, problems in the hips, spine, or core can all contribute to SI joint pain.

At CHARM, we focus on identifying the underlying cause of dysfunction, not just the painful joint itself. By evaluating how the spine, pelvis, and surrounding muscles work together, we can develop treatment strategies that restore stability, reduce irritation, and improve long-term movement patterns.

Common SI Joint Conditions We Treat

SI joint pain can present in many ways and is often mistaken for other sources of lower back pain. At CHARM, we evaluate the entire musculoskeletal system to determine whether the sacroiliac joint is contributing to a patient’s symptoms.

SI joint pain conditions commonly treated at CHARM include:

  • Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: Abnormal motion or instability of the SI joint that causes pain in the lower back, pelvis, or buttock region.
  • SI Joint Inflammation (Sacroiliitis): Irritation or inflammation of the joint is often associated with repetitive stress, injury, or inflammatory conditions.
  • Ligamentous Instability of the SI Joint: Weakness, injury, or stretching of the ligaments that stabilize the joint, which can lead to persistent pain and altered movement patterns.
  • Postpartum SI Joint Pain: Hormonal and biomechanical changes during pregnancy can increase joint laxity and lead to SI joint instability after childbirth.
  • SI Joint Pain Following Injury: Falls, sports injuries, or car accidents can disrupt connective tissue stability and normal pelvic mechanics, contributing to chronic SI joint discomfort.

Because SI joint symptoms can mimic other conditions, such as disc injuries or hip disorders, an accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure the most effective treatment plan.

CHARM’s Approach to SI Joint Pain Treatment

SI joint dysfunction rarely occurs in isolation. The joint is stabilized by a complex network of ligaments, muscles, and movement patterns that must work together to maintain stability while allowing efficient summation and transfer of forces required for optimal motion and athletic performance. 

At CHARM, we use a multifaceted, interdisciplinary treatment strategy to address the underlying contributors to SI joint pain.

Our approach typically follows three key phases:

Release
Many patients develop tight or overactive muscles that place excess stress on the pelvis and SI joint. Targeted therapies help reduce muscle tension and relieve abnormal strain on surrounding structures.

Balance
Then, we focus on activating and strengthening muscles that are not functioning optimally, particularly those that stabilize the pelvis and core. Restoring balance between these muscle groups helps improve joint stability.

Build
Once proper muscle activation is restored, we progress to integrated movement training that reinforces healthy movement patterns. These exercises help retrain the body to maintain stability across the pelvis, spine, and legs during real-world activities.

When ligament damage or persistent inflammation is contributing to the problem, regenerative medicine therapies may also be incorporated to support tissue repair and long-term joint stability.

This comprehensive strategy allows us to address both pain relief and long-term functional recovery.

Regenerative Medicine Injections and Interventions We Use

Unlike conventional approaches that rely heavily on steroids or surgery, regenerative therapies stimulate the body’s own repair processes. When delivered with precision and paired with appropriate rehabilitation, these treatments can promote tissue recovery while preserving long-term structural health.

Our regenerative treatment options include:

  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): PRP uses the body’s own platelets to stimulate tissue repair, accelerate healing, and improve joint stability. 
  • Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC): BMAC delivers a rich source of healing cells from your own bone marrow to promote the repair of stubborn or advanced injuries.
  • Platelet Lysate: Platelet lysate can be used around inflamed or irritated nerves to decrease inflammation and support tissue repair without the degenerative side effects associated with repeated steroid use.
  • Epidural Steroid Injection: This injection delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into the epidural space surrounding irritated spinal nerves.
  • Anesthetic Steroid Injections: Anesthetic and corticosteroid injections into the SI joint help confirm the source of pain while providing targeted, short-term relief.
  • Radiofrequency Neurotomy: A minimally invasive procedure that uses targeted heat energy to interrupt pain signals from small sensory nerves supplying painful joints.

Our restorative treatment options include:

  • Redcord Neurac (NEURomuscular ACtivation) Method: Using ropes, slings, and bungees, this method reduces body weight to restore normal stability, movement patterns, and neuromuscular control.
  • NeuFit Method: Using therapeutic direct current to reduce protective guarding and muscle tension, this method helps improve range of motion and access to full muscle strength and function.
  • Microcurrent Point Stimulation (MPS): MPS current, applied via a non-invasive point stimulator, delivers a low frequency of 2-4 Hz, similar to acupuncture. This therapy quickly and safely reduces muscle tension, nervous system stress, and enhances pain response regulation.
  • Class IV Laser Therapy: This method employs photobiomodulation with specific wavelengths of light, which significantly enhance cellular function, reduce pain and inflammation, and promote tissue healing.

Each intervention is selected based on your diagnosis, the severity of tissue damage, and your overall recovery goals.

Schedule Your SI Joint Pain Consultation in Austin Today

SI joint dysfunction can significantly impact your ability to move comfortably and stay active. With the right diagnosis and treatment, many patients can restore stability, reduce pain, and return to the activities they enjoy.

If you are experiencing persistent lower back, hip, or pelvic pain, our team can help determine whether the sacroiliac joint may be contributing to your symptoms.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation online or call us at 512-686-8715 to explore a regenerative treatment plan tailored to your needs.