Living with SI joint pain after spinal fusion is genuinely tough, and it makes sense that the fused segments put extra stress on the surrounding joints. This is sometimes called "transitional syndrome," where the area adjacent to the fused portion takes on more load and becomes painful.
Here are some approaches that may help Show Full Answer
Living with SI joint pain after spinal fusion is genuinely tough, and it makes sense that the fused segments put extra stress on the surrounding joints. This is sometimes called "transitional syndrome," where the area adjacent to the fused portion takes on more load and becomes painful.
Here are some approaches that may help manage SI joint pain:
- NSAIDs – Anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce inflammation and pain in the SI joints
- Heat and ice – MySpondylitisTeam members have found both helpful; ice for acute pain and heat in the morning to loosen stiffness
- Physical therapy – Supervised, active exercise is recommended over passive therapies. Core and hip strengthening exercises can help stabilize and support the SI joints
- Biologic medications – If not already explored, biologics can do a stronger job of controlling spinal inflammation overall and may be worth discussing with your rheumatologist
- Supplements – Omega-3, glucosamine, and turmeric/curcumin may help with pain and inflammation, though always check with your doctor first
One important note — chiropractic adjustments are strongly discouraged when spinal fusion is present, as they carry serious risks for people in your situation. It's really worth having an open conversation with your rheumatologist about what you haven't tried yet. Given that nothing has helped so far, they may want to reassess your current treatment plan and explore stronger options. You deserve better pain relief than you're getting right now!
October 5
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