Sacrum Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
In this article we’ll discuss the various causes of sacrum pain, their symptoms, and treatment options.
What is the Sacrum?
The sacrum is a bone at the lower end of our spine, in our pelvic cavity. When we are young the sacrum is actually 5 additional vertebrae at the base of our spine. Sometime during our late teenage years or twenties these 5 vertebrae fuse together and form one bone, called the sacrum.
Several bones form joints with the sacrum. Just above the sacrum, in the spinal column, is the last lumbar vertebra, called L5. At the base of the sacrum, it meets up with the coccyx, or tailbone. The iliac portion of the hip bone meets up with the sacrum on the left and right sides. The joints where the sacrum and hip bone meet on each side are called the sacroiliac joints, or SI joints.
Read more in our series on spinal anatomy.
Sacrum Pain
Sacrum pain can have several different causes. The most common are a fractured sacrum, problems in the area between L5 and the sacrum, or problems around the sacroiliac joints.
Pain from a Fractured Sacrum
A fractured sacrum can be the result of a fall or accident. In addition, osteoporosis can weaken the bone and lead to stress fractures in the sacrum.
Symptoms of a fractured sacrum can include pain, bowel or bladder dysfunction, numbness, and weakness in the legs. An undetected fractured sacrum can cause serious conditions. If you’ve had a recent accident or fall and experience these symptoms you should seek medical treatment quickly.
Read more about spinal fractures.
Sacroiliitis (Inflammation)
Irritation or irregular movement of a joint can lead to inflammation. When this inflammation occurs around the sacrum it is referred to as sacroiliitis.
Sacroiliitis is really a symptom of another condition. The underlying cause of the inflammation could be related to a genetic condition, a tumor in the sacral area, or a degenerative condition.
Symptoms of sacroiliitis include SI joint pain, or pain in the buttocks, groin, legs, or lower back areas.
Treatment of sacroiliitis depends on the underlying condition that is causing the inflammation.
If you have sacrum pain, give Saratoga Spine a call to setup an appointment. Our doctors can diagnose and treat your condition.
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