What the procedure is
SI joint fusion stabilizes the sacroiliac (SI) joint—the small joint that connects the spine (sacrum) to the pelvis—when it remains a proven source of pain despite conservative care. Through a small incision and imaging guidance, your surgeon places implants to limit painful motion and allow the joint to heal in a stable position. Most cases use a minimally invasive approach with a straightforward recovery plan.
What it can help with
When the SI joint is the culprit, stabilizing it can reduce low-back, buttock, and groin pain, improve standing and walking tolerance, and lessen pain with sitting, stairs, or getting in and out of a car. Many patients report better sleep and a safer path back to work and daily activity.
(Because other conditions can mimic SI pain, we confirm the diagnosis with exam maneuvers and often a diagnostic SI joint injection before discussing fusion.)
What it treats
- SI joint dysfunction / sacroiliitis that has failed conservative care
- Pain starting near the posterior pelvis that may radiate into the buttock, hip, or thigh
- SI-mediated pain after trauma, pregnancy-related instability, prior lumbar fusion, or repetitive strain
Who needs this treatment
You may be a candidate if you have persistent SI-pattern pain that limits daily life despite activity modification, targeted therapy, bracing, medications, Class IV laser therapy, or image-guided SI injections—and if relief after a diagnostic injection points to the SI joint as the true source. We’ll also review factors like bone health, smoking status, and overall goals to determine the safest plan.
The benefits
- Minimally invasive stabilization through a small incision
- Targeted relief for confirmed SI-mediated pain
- Typically outpatient or short stay with a stepwise return to activity
- Helps reduce reliance on repeated injections or chronic medication
- A structured plan to restore confidence in standing, walking, and transfers
How we can help as a practice
At Orthopedic Spine Institute of St. Louis, we start with a conservative-first pathway and proceed to fusion only when the SI joint is clearly identified as the pain generator. Your visit includes a focused exam, review of imaging, and discussion of alternatives. If fusion is appropriate, we outline each step—pre-op preparation, the day of surgery, weight-bearing guidance, and therapy milestones—so you know exactly what to expect. Our team verifies insurance (including Workers’ Compensation when applicable) and offers same-week appointments when available.
Ready to find out if SI joint fusion is right for you?
Answer a few quick questions and we’ll route you to the right visit type. You can also call our St. Louis office or book online.
Don't Let The Pain Control Your Life
Back or neck pain? Start with a conservative plan—30+ years of spine care in St. Louis, same-week appointments.