Physiotherapy for Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

What is sacroiliac joint dysfunction?

The sacroiliac (SI) joints connect the sacrum at the base of the spine to the iliac bones of the pelvis, transferring loads between the upper body and lower limbs. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction occurs when micro-instability, ligamentous sprain, or hypomobility generates localized pain over the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS). In India, common triggers include falls directly onto one buttock, pregnancy-related pelvic ligament laxity, asymmetric heavy carrying, and repetitive vibration from autorickshaw or tractor driving over uneven roads. Physiotherapy utilizes the Laslett 4-test provocation cluster (distraction, thigh thrust, compression, sacral thrust) for accurate clinical identification, followed by pelvic realignment, deep core and gluteal stabilization, and supportive sacroiliac belt fitting during the acute phase.

How physiotherapy helps

• Laslett cluster for accurate diagnosis
• Gentle sacroiliac joint mobilisation
• Deep core and gluteal stabilisation exercises
• Piriformis and hip flexor soft tissue release
• Sacroiliac belt fitting and posture guidance

Common signs

• Sharp, dull, or aching pain located just below the beltline on one side of the lower back and buttock
• Pain that may refer into the groin, hip, or back of the thigh, but rarely extends below the knee
• Discomfort aggravated by single-leg weight bearing, such as climbing stairs, putting on pants, or getting out of a car
• Pain when rolling over in bed or transitioning from sitting to standing
• Tenderness when pressing directly over the dimple of Venus on the painful side

Clinical rehabilitation framework

Evidence-informed clinical progression and starter exercise targets for sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

Frequently asked questions

Related conditions & care

Back PainBack pain is a common reason people see a physiotherapist in India. It can come from muscle strain, long hours of sitting, poor posture, disc problems, or general wear and tear. Most back pain can ease with the right movement and care. Physiotherapy focuses on relieving your current pain while building the strength and habits that can lower the chance of it returning.

SciaticaSciatica is pain that travels from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg, along the path of the sciatic nerve. It is usually caused by irritation or pressure on the nerve, often from the lower back. Physiotherapy can help reduce nerve irritation and ease pain, and rebuilds the movement and strength that protect your back.

CoccydyniaCoccydynia refers to localized pain and tenderness in the coccyx (tailbone) at the base of the spine. In India, common triggers include falls directly onto the buttocks (such as slipping on wet tiled floors or stairs), prolonged commuting on two-wheelers or autorickshaws over uneven roads, prolonged sitting on hard wooden or plastic furniture, and postpartum pelvic strain following vaginal childbirth. Sitting places significant mechanical shear through the sacrococcygeal joint. Physiotherapy addresses coccydynia through seating biomechanics, specialized coccyx cushions that offload the tailbone, gentle mobilisations, piriformis stretching, pelvic floor down-training, and gluteal strengthening.

Clinical guides & articles for sacroiliac joint dysfunction

Evidence-informed articles, recovery timelines, and home care advice from our clinical library.