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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