Diagnosis of SI Joint Instability and Dysfunction
Taking the correct steps for diagnosis
Before planning the procedure, the sacroiliac joint must be clearly identified as the principal source of pain. Due to mechanical or radicular symptoms, the SI joint can also mimic conditions in the lumbar spine and/or the hip joints. The reverse is also true. Treatment of pathological findings may therefore include the following steps to determine the SI joint is the source of pain and to also determine if LinQ™ is a viable option for treatment.
History and Complaints of Pain
Typically, the first step to diagnose SI joint dysfunction is through a physical exam. During the exam, ask your patient about their medical history and determine whether the patient has any underlying conditions that could be causing their pain.
These risk factors from the patient can be very helpful in the identification of SI joint dysfunction.
Physical Examination of SI Joint
Point to Pain – Fortin Finger Test. Sitting or standing, have the patient use one finger to localize their pain. A positive test is when the patient twice identifies the painful region as within 1 cm of inferomedial (below and in the middle) to the PSIS or the dimple on the lower back above the beltline.
Palpating is when the clinician presses or touches this area to help determine SI dysfunction.
Provocative Testing
The Non-Invasive Identifying Process. Patients with SI joint pain typically have discomfort during provocative testing. These tests are physical examination tests that stress, or put pressure on, the SI joint(s) in various directions. Pain during these tests may signal that there’s a problem in that area. Medicare/Local Coverage Determination guidelines require 3 or more positive tests out of 5 specific provocative tests.
Diagnostic Injections
Sacroiliac Joint Injection:
Another Test for SI Joint Pain
Injections are one of the most accurate methods of diagnosing SI joint dysfunction. In fact, SI joint injections are considered the “gold standard” for diagnosing SI joint pain.
Improve Your Patient’s SI Joint Outcomes with the LinQ™ SI Joint Stabilization System
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