Procedure Description
Sacroiliac (SI) joint injections and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are two minimally invasive procedures used to diagnose and treat pain arising from the sacroiliac joints, which connect the sacrum (the base of the spine) to the pelvis. These joints can become inflamed or dysfunctional due to arthritis, injury, or biomechanical stress, causing low back pain, buttock pain, and referred leg symptoms.
The SI joint injection is used to confirm that the joint is the source of pain and to provide short-term relief by delivering a local anesthetic and corticosteroid directly into the joint.
If pain relief from the injection is significant, a radiofrequency ablation can be performed to "turn off" the sensory nerves that transmit pain from the SI joint, providing longer-lasting relief.
What It Treats
These procedures are used to manage:
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
Sacroiliitis (inflammation of the SI joint)
SI joint arthritis
Pain after spinal fusion surgery
Pain during sitting, standing, walking, or transitioning movements
Symptoms commonly include:
One-sided low back or buttock pain
Pain that may radiate to the hip, groin, or upper thigh
Stiffness or instability in the pelvis/lower back
How It Is Performed
Step 1: SI Joint Injection
You will lie face down on a procedure table.
The injection site is cleansed and numbed with local anesthetic.
Under fluoroscopy (X-ray) guidance, a thin needle is inserted into the SI joint.
A contrast dye may be used to confirm joint placement.
A combination of local anesthetic and corticosteroid is injected.
Your response is monitored over the next few hours to assess pain relief.
Step 2: SI Joint Radiofrequency Ablation (if indicated)
If the injection provides significant but temporary relief, RFA may be scheduled within 1–3 weeks.
The same positioning and imaging guidance are used.
Small needles are placed near the lateral branch nerves that supply the SI joint.
A test stimulation is performed to ensure accuracy.
Radiofrequency energy is then applied to heat and deactivate the nerves.
The procedure usually lasts 30–45 minutes.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before the procedure if sedation is planned.
Review all current medications with your provider—blood thinners may need to be paused.
Inform your provider if you:
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Have allergies to anesthetics, steroids, or contrast dye
Have an active infection or fever
Arrange for a driver if sedation is used or if leg stability may be affected post-procedure.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment.
What to Expect After the Procedure
After SI Joint Injection:
You may feel immediate relief from the anesthetic, lasting a few hours to days.
If pain significantly improves (>50%), it confirms the SI joint as the pain source.
You can resume light activities but avoid heavy exertion for 24–48 hours.
After RFA:
Mild soreness or bruising at the injection site is common for a few days.
Pain relief usually begins within 1–3 weeks and can last 6–12 months or longer.
You may resume light activity the next day, but avoid vigorous movement for several days.
RFA can be repeated if symptoms return.
Call your provider if you experience:
Fever or chills
Worsening pain, numbness, or leg weakness
Signs of infection at the injection site
Lasting Relief for Chronic SI Joint Pain
At Parkview Spine & Pain, we offer precision-guided sacroiliac joint injections and radiofrequency ablation to relieve pain and improve mobility in patients suffering from SI joint dysfunction and arthritis. These minimally invasive treatments provide safe, targeted, and long-term pain relief—without major surgery.
👉 Schedule your consultation today to see if SI joint injection and RFA are right for your lower back or pelvic pain.