Advanced Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Treatment
SI Joint Fusion in Houston & Beaumont, TX
If you’ve been dealing with ongoing lower back or pelvic pain that hasn’t improved with physical therapy or injections, the problem could be your sacroiliac (SI) joint. At Spine Associates, we offer advanced diagnostic evaluations and minimally invasive SI joint fusion procedures for patients in Houston and Beaumont, Texas.
Understanding SI Joints
The sacroiliac joint connects the spine to the pelvis. Although it moves very little, dysfunction in this joint can cause chronic lower back pain, especially near the buttocks and hips. In fact, research shows that up to 30% of all low back pain cases are caused by SI joint problems—though they’re often overlooked.
Common causes of SI joint dysfunction include:
- Traumatic injuries (such as falls or car accidents)
- Prior spine surgeries
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Leg length differences
- Inflammatory or degenerative joint conditions like arthritis
Minimally Invasive SI Joint Fusion
At Spine Associates, we perform SI joint fusion using the iFuse Implant System®, a widely studied and FDA-cleared procedure that helps stabilize the SI joint and reduce pain. This approach is minimally invasive, meaning there is less tissue disruption and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
GO WITH THE TEAM THAT YOU TRUST
It makes sense to seek multiple opinions from specialists when you’re considering a possible spinal operation. Almost all of our patients do exactly that, and in the end, they come to us. There are multiple reasons why, but it is largely about trust. Our reputation has been built upon patient successes and real results, repeated many times over many years. We invite you to read the success stories from our patients to learn about our approach and their outcomes firsthand. Then discuss with your doctor about the best place to receive care.
Benefits of the iFuse Procedure:
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A small incision (approximately 1 inch)
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Minimal muscle disruption
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Immediate joint stabilization
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Shorter recovery time
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Long-term pain relief
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Covered by most major insurance plans and Medicare
During the procedure, small titanium implants are placed across the SI joint to limit movement and promote bone growth. This stabilizes the joint and helps reduce the painful inflammation caused by excessive motion or instability.
When to Consider Sacroiliac Joint Fusion
SI joint fusion is not the first step in treatment. Many patients try non-surgical therapies like chiropractic care, physical therapy, and steroid injections. However, if those approaches do not provide long-term relief, surgical intervention may be necessary.
You may be a candidate for SI joint fusion if you experience:
- Pain localized to one side of the lower back or buttocks
- Pain that worsens with standing, walking, or changing positions
- Limited response to SI joint injections or conservative care
- Difficulty performing daily tasks due to back or pelvic discomfort
A diagnostic evaluation at our clinic will include a detailed history, physical exam, and possibly imaging or targeted injections to confirm the SI joint as the pain source.
Why Choose Spine Associates?
Patients across Houston and Beaumont choose Spine Associates for specialized care in spinal conditions and minimally invasive procedures. Our team, including Dr. Richard Francis, has decades of experience treating SI joint dysfunction and uses the latest surgical tools to ensure precision and safety.
We believe in a conservative-first approach, recommending surgery only when it is truly the best next step. If you’re considering SI joint fusion in Houston or Beaumont, we will help you understand all of your options and develop a care plan that works for your lifestyle and goals.
Request a Consultation in Houston or Beaumont
If you suspect your pain could be coming from the sacroiliac joint, we’re here to help. Contact Spine Associates today at 888-977-4625 to schedule a consultation with an experienced SI joint specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during SI joint fusion surgery?
Through a small incision, titanium implants are inserted across the SI joint to stop motion and promote bone fusion. The SI joint fusion procedure typically takes less than an hour and is done under general anesthesia.
How long is the recovery after SI joint fusion?
Most patients return to light activity within 2–4 weeks. Full fusion and healing can take several months, but many experience pain relief much sooner.
Is the iFuse Implant System® safe?
Yes. The iFuse procedure is supported by multiple clinical studies and has been used in thousands of cases. It is FDA-cleared and considered safe and effective for eligible patients.
Does insurance cover SI joint fusion?
Yes, most insurance plans—including Medicare—cover SI joint fusion when conservative treatments have failed and diagnosis confirms SI joint dysfunction.
What are the risks?
As with any surgery, risks include infection, bleeding, or implant failure, but these are rare with minimally invasive SI joint fusion. We will discuss risks in detail during your consultation.