Sacroiliac Joint Pain: What Causes It and How Physiotherapy in Calgary Can Help

Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain is a common source of low back pain, especially in adults who sit for

long periods, lift repetitively, or have experienced pregnancy or trauma. It’s often misdiagnosed

or confused with disc or hip pain—making a proper assessment key to recovery.

At our Calgary physiotherapy clinic on MacLeod Trail, we specialize in treating SI joint

dysfunction with a hands-on, evidence-based approach that helps you move better, feel stronger,

and live pain-free. We proudly support patients from Haysboro, Acadia, Kingsland, Fairview,

and surrounding South Calgary neighbourhoods. Visit us at 8989 MacLeod Trail SW.

What is the Sacroiliac Joint?

The SI joint connects the sacrum (base of the spine) to the ilium (pelvic bones). While it

allows minimal motion, it plays a major role in shock absorption, force transfer, and pelvic

stability (Vleeming et al., 2008).

What Causes SI Joint Pain?

SI joint dysfunction can stem from either too much motion (hypermobility) or too little motion

(hypomobility). Common contributors include:

• Repetitive lifting or twisting

• Pregnancy or postpartum changes

• Pelvic asymmetry or leg length discrepancy

• Trauma, such as falls or motor vehicle accidents

• Inflammatory conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis)

• Degenerative changes in older adults

Symptoms of SI Joint Dysfunction

• Pain on one or both sides of the lower back

• Discomfort with standing, walking, or transitioning from sitting to standing

• Pain that may refer to the buttocks, groin, or back of the thigh

• Stiffness or instability in the pelvis

How Physiotherapy Helps SI Joint Pain in Calgary

1. Thorough SI Joint Assessment

Our physiotherapists use a combination of:

• Pain provocation tests (e.g., Gaenslen’s, FABER)

• Movement screening

• Pelvic alignment and leg length evaluation

2. Manual Therapy for Joint and Muscle Dysfunction

• Mobilization or gentle manipulation to restore proper joint mechanics

• Soft tissue release for glutes, piriformis, and hip flexors

• Pelvic alignment techniques to address asymmetries

3. Stability & Strengthening Exercises

A strong pelvic and core system reduces stress on the SI joint. We target:

• Transversus abdominis and multifidus for deep core control

• Gluteus medius and maximus for pelvic stability

• Hip rotators and abductors

4. Movement Retraining & Posture Correction

We identify and correct habits that overload the pelvis during daily activities—like improper

lifting, sitting, or walking gait.

5. Pregnancy & Postpartum SI Joint Care

We offer specialized protocols for women experiencing SI joint pain during or after pregnancy,

often using pelvic belts, gentle stabilization, and education.

6. Pain Relief Modalities

Dry needling to reduce muscle spasm

Heat, TENS, or kinesiology taping

Why Choose Our SI Joint Physio Team in South Calgary?

At 8989 MacLeod Trail SW, we offer expert SI joint physiotherapy with personalized care

plans and longer 1-on-1 appointments. Whether your pain is new, recurring, or pregnancy-

related, we’re here to help you move better—without relying on medication.

Book Your SI Joint Assessment Today

Don’t let SI joint pain limit your lifestyle. Schedule a personalized assessment with our

experienced Calgary physiotherapists and take the first step toward long-term relief.

References

 Vleeming A, et al. (2008). The role of the sacroiliac joints in coupling between spine,

pelvis, and legs. Clinical Biomechanics.

 Dreyfuss P, et al. (2004). Sacroiliac joint pain. J Am Acad Orthop Surg.

 Szadek KM, et al. (2009). Diagnostic validity of provocation tests for sacroiliac joint

pain. Spine.

 Arab AM, et al. (2007). The effect of pelvic stabilization exercises on postpartum women

with SI joint pain. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice.