An SI joint belt can be used to stabilize the SI joint during movement and thereby decrease the painful symptoms that result from it.

If you have been diagnosed with SI joint dysfunction, among the first treatment options a physician might recommend to help relieve the pain you’re experiencing is something called an SI joint belt. The SI Joint is designed to move in a very limited way: usually only 2 – 4 millimeters. It can be a source of pain when it becomes unstable and moves too much or in an irregular fashion. The resulting symptoms of pain from this abnormal movement are varied and can range in severity. But to relieve the pain, the SI joint must be stabilized. An SI Joint Belt may help achieve this goal.

SI joint belts are typically 6-8 inches in width and they are designed to wrap snugly around the hips, usually with strong Velcro-like fasteners, in an effort to stabilize the SI Joint. In order for the SI joint belt to work correctly, it is important to note that it must be properly placed around the pelvis as opposed to the lower back. There are reputable companies that will properly fit an SI joint belt to the specific measurements of the individual and will demonstrate how to properly wear and use it.

Potential SI Joint Belt Benefits

• When precisely worn, an SI Joint Belt may:
• Help alleviate SI joint pain
• Aid in reduction of SI joint inflammation
• Allow time for healing so that proper SI joint function is restored

Potential SI Joint Belt Disadvantages

• Must be placed precisely in order to be effective
• May need to be worn constantly in order to achieve adequate pain relief
• SI joint pain symptoms may return when brace is removed for any extended period of time
• Not appropriate for all causes of SI Joint Dysfunction

If you have been diagnosed with SI Joint Pain or SI Joint Dysfunction, your physician may prescribe an SI Joint Belt to aid in your treatment. While the use of an SI joint belt may be beneficial as an early treatment option for some patients, there are others who will not find the relief they need from such a device. Especially in those patients who are suffering from SI Joint Dysfunction as a result of arthritis in their SI joint, other first-line treatments like medication or SI joint injections may address their pain symptoms more appropriately. Whether it’s an SI joint belt or other treatment option, to determine the right type of treatment option for you, be sure to discuss your SI Joint Dysfunction concerns with a physician experienced in treating these conditions.