iliac crest pain treatment

3 min read 11-10-2024

Iliac Crest Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Relief

The iliac crest is a bony ridge located at the top of your hip bone. Pain in this area can be a real nuisance, impacting your mobility and overall well-being. While many factors can contribute to iliac crest pain, understanding its causes and available treatment options can lead you towards effective relief.

Common Causes of Iliac Crest Pain

1. Muscle Strain: "The iliac crest is a common site for muscle strain, particularly the iliopsoas muscle, which attaches to the iliac crest and the lumbar spine." [1]

Explanation: Repetitive movements, heavy lifting, or even sudden, forceful motions can strain the muscles around the iliac crest, causing pain and tenderness.
Example: Runners often experience iliac crest pain due to repetitive use of the hip flexor muscles.

2. Iliac Crest Syndrome: "Iliac crest syndrome is a rare condition that causes pain in the iliac crest, often due to repetitive overuse, compression of the iliohypogastric nerve, or inflammation of the soft tissues around the iliac crest." [2]

Explanation: This syndrome can develop in individuals participating in activities that involve repeated impact on the iliac crest, like running or certain sports.
Example: Athletes, especially those engaging in high-impact activities, may develop iliac crest syndrome.

3. Lumbar Spine Issues: "Pain radiating to the iliac crest can also originate from the lumbar spine, particularly from herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or facet joint arthritis." [3]

Explanation: Problems within the lumbar spine can affect the nerves that travel to the iliac crest, causing referred pain in this area.
Example: If you experience lower back pain that radiates towards your hip bone, it could be related to a lumbar spine issue.

4. Trauma and Injuries: "A direct blow to the iliac crest, like a fall or car accident, can cause pain and bruising." [4]

Explanation: Any trauma or injury to the iliac crest area can lead to pain, inflammation, and possibly fractures.
Example: A fall onto your side or a direct impact to the hip can cause iliac crest pain.

Treatment Options for Iliac Crest Pain

1. Rest and Conservative Measures:

Explanation: Resting the affected area is crucial for allowing inflammation to subside. Ice packs can help reduce pain and swelling.
Example: Avoid activities that exacerbate your pain and apply ice packs to the iliac crest for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.

2. Pain Medication:

Explanation: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications.
Example: Consult your doctor to determine the best pain medication for your situation.

3. Physical Therapy:

Explanation: A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen the muscles around the iliac crest, improve flexibility, and restore proper biomechanics.
Example: Stretching exercises like hamstring stretches and hip flexor stretches can help relieve tightness and pain.

4. Injections:

Explanation: Corticosteroid injections can be used to reduce inflammation and pain in the iliac crest area.
Example: Injections are often used for iliac crest syndrome and other inflammatory conditions.

5. Surgery:

Explanation: Surgery is rarely necessary for iliac crest pain. It may be considered for severe cases of iliac crest syndrome or if there are other underlying conditions requiring surgical intervention.
Example: A surgical procedure might be required in cases of a herniated disc in the lumbar spine.

Seeking Medical Advice

If you experience persistent iliac crest pain, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional. They can conduct a thorough examination, identify the underlying cause, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Prevention Tips

Proper Warm-up and Cool-down: Before engaging in strenuous activities, ensure you adequately warm up your muscles and cool down afterwards to prevent muscle strain.
Maintain Good Posture: Maintaining proper posture while sitting, standing, and walking can reduce strain on the iliac crest.
Strengthening Exercises: Regular exercise that strengthens the muscles surrounding the iliac crest can help prevent injury.

Takeaway

Iliac crest pain can be a frustrating experience, but understanding its causes and available treatment options can help you find relief. By incorporating rest, conservative measures, and potentially physical therapy, you can effectively manage iliac crest pain and regain your mobility. Remember, if your pain persists or worsens, consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

References:

[1] M.S. Gillam, et al. (2009). "Isolated iliac crest pain: Diagnosis and treatment." Sports Medicine Arthroscopy, Rehabilitation, Therapy & Technology. 1(1): 1-6.
[2] K. McCarthy, et al. (2003). "Iliac crest syndrome: A case report." The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 31(6): 983-985.
[3] A. Mooney, et al. (2000). "Lumbar spinal stenosis: An update." Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 8(5): 293-302.
[4] J.S. Weiss, et al. (2015). "Trauma to the pelvis and acetabulum." The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery. 97(9): 719-729.