What to expect from physiotherapy for sacroiliac joint dysfunction

Your physiotherapist may observe walking, standing, bending, getting up from a chair and single-leg tasks. They may assess the lower back, pelvis, hips and surrounding muscles because pain in this area can be influenced by several structures. Treatment may include comfortable mobility, hands-on techniques when appropriate, and exercises that improve control around the pelvis. The plan should reflect pregnancy, recent injury, work demands and any other health conditions.

Follow the home programme at the prescribed pace and use symptom response to guide progression. Changing position regularly, taking shorter walks more often, and practising controlled hip or trunk movements may be easier than one demanding session. Avoid repeatedly testing the painful movement. Tell your therapist about altered walking, pain spreading below the knee, or difficulty with sleep so the assessment remains focused on your actual pattern.

Get urgent medical help for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, severe or progressive leg weakness, or back pain with fever or serious illness. Prompt review is also appropriate after major trauma or when pain is accompanied by unexplained weight loss. Contact your physiotherapist if symptoms change sharply or the exercise plan repeatedly increases pain.

Ask how the diagnosis was reached, whether the hip or lower back also needs assessment, and which activities are suitable now. Discuss how pregnancy, previous injury or inflammatory symptoms may change the rehabilitation plan.