Can SI Joint Cause Knee Pain?
December 28, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, dysfunction or issues related to the sacroiliac (SI) joint can sometimes contribute to knee pain. The SI joint connects the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) to the pelvis and plays a crucial role in stability and load transmission between the upper body and the legs.
When the SI joint experiences dysfunction, such as inflammation, misalignment, or excessive movement, it can lead to altered biomechanics in the lower back, pelvis, and lower extremities, potentially affecting the knees.
While the SI joint is not directly connected to the knees, alterations in gait, changes in weight distribution, or compensatory movements due to SI joint dysfunction can cause increased stress or abnormal loading on the lower limbs, including the knees. This altered mechanics might contribute to knee pain or discomfort over time.
Moreover, pain arising from the SI joint itself can sometimes be felt in the buttocks, hips, or thighs, and the perception of this pain might affect the way an individual moves or bears weight on the lower limbs, potentially leading to secondary knee discomfort.
It’s important to note that knee pain can have various causes, and SI joint dysfunction is just one potential factor contributing to knee discomfort. Other factors such as ligament injuries, meniscus tears, osteoarthritis, or patellofemoral syndrome can also cause knee pain.
If you suspect SI joint dysfunction as a possible source of your knee pain or experience pain in both the SI joint area and knees, seeking evaluation from a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or orthopedic specialist, can help in identifying the underlying problem and developing an appropriate treatment plan to address both the SI joint dysfunction and knee pain effectively.