Wednesday, June 4, 2008

SI joint is popping after fixation surgery

Question:
I had an SI fixation 2 years ago and was wondering if it was normal for the joint to continue to "pop." Could the screws be loose? Should I get a fusion instead?

Answer:
If an x-ray confirmed the correct placement of the screws I would not worry about the screws loosening. Following fixation of the SIJ a small degree of movement can continue to persist but typically it is not a problem. The popping that you are hearing is more likely either the tendon of the hip flexor or the L5-S1 facet joint. I would have a skilled manual therapist assess and treat your lumbar spine before considering SI fusion surgery.
Good Luck! David

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2 Comments:

At July 26, 2008 5:40 PM , Blogger Nilima said...

Hi. I also had a bilateral SIJ fixation done back in '05 after which my left side needed a revision with a longer screw embedded deeper into the sacrum in '06. Now, almost 2.5 years later it feels like the left screws are loosening. I have yet to see a doctor and have xrays done as I am waiting on my HMO to approve referrals. But the discomfort I have now is different from what I have had in the past. Could it be possible for my screws to be loosening? I have Ehlers Danlos (hypermobility type)syndrome and I was originally told that a fusion would cause a domino effect that would be problematic due to the EDS. This is why I opted for the screws as a conservative approach. Any advice would be welcome. The pain is quite unbearable when the screws seem to move out of place. Thank you.

 
At July 30, 2008 10:31 PM , Blogger laeds said...

Hi Nilima,
Thanks for your post. I have EDS too and have SI joint disfunction. I'm in terrible pain from my joints. I'm in need of a surgeon. Where did you have yours done? My name is terra and my e-mail is ladyterrad@yahoo.com.

Thanks! Talk to you soon!

 

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