Expert: Gerald Anzalone, D.C. - 6/19/2011

Question
Hello Gerald Anzalone
If you could shed any light on the result of my MRI scan I would very much appreciate it. I will pay for a private consultation with a Rheumatologist but until then if you can offer any help, advice that would be great. .

Basically I have been suffering with my back and leg for about 3 years, seeing everyone and anyone and getting no where. Friday I had the result of my MRI scan focusing on my pelvis and finally have something in writing that I can seek advise on.

MRI Pelvis, Both Hips;
There is extensive high signal changes identified around the right sacroliiac joint which is likely to represent marrow oedema around this region. There is also irregularity of the sacroiliac joint associated with this change, hence this is likely to reaise the possibility of sacrolilitis. Similar but very mild changes are seen on the left sacroliac joint. Hence there is bilateral
asymmetrical sacroilitis. Features would be suggestive of spondyloarthropathy.

Any advice,or simply helping me understand what the above means would be very much appreciated
Kind regards
Lee

Answer
Your MRI findings essentially describe osteoarthritis of the sacro-iliac joint.

Sacro-iliac joint pain can refer pain to the hip joint, the groin, or the buttocks and back of the thigh, but usually not below the knee.

Sacro-iliac joint dysfunction can be treated effectively with a steroid injection to the joint, followed by physical therapy.

I hope that this helps to answer your question.