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Warning-sign checks

Sacroiliac joint pain: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Go to an emergency department or call emergency services if you have:

    • New loss of bladder or bowel control
    • Numbness around your genitals, anus, or inner thighs
    • New or rapidly worsening leg weakness
    • Severe pain after a major fall, collision, or other injury
    • An inability to stand or walk after an injury

    These symptoms may indicate a spinal nerve emergency or significant injury rather than a routine SI joint problem.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek same-day medical advice if the pain is severe or worsening and you also have fever, chills, redness, warmth, or feel generally unwell.

    Prompt assessment is also important if you have a weakened immune system or recently had a serious infection or procedure.

    Arrange an assessment sooner if you have unexplained weight loss, a history of cancer, or pain that is constant and unrelated to movement.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if the pain lasts more than a few weeks, keeps returning, disturbs sleep, or limits work and everyday activities.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Sacroiliac joint pain. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.