Pointing to one spot near the back of your pelvis can help describe pain, but it cannot confirm that a joint is “out.” Start with the movements and history.
This is general education for adults, not a diagnosis or an individualized exercise prescription. Your symptoms, health history and any existing medical advice come first.
What might be behind the symptoms?
The sacroiliac joints connect the spine and pelvis and normally move only a little. Buttock or one-sided lower-back pain can occur with SI-joint problems, but other causes can feel similar.
Our si joint–related pain guide explains the related assessment and care options in more detail.
What you can try at home
Avoid forceful self-adjustments. Record which transitions, such as standing after sitting, are difficult and follow individualized advice for activity. A clinician may assess the hips and back as well as the painful area.
Stop a self-care measure if it increases symptoms. If you are unsure whether it is suitable, ask a qualified health professional; do not delay medical care while trying home remedies.
When to seek medical help
New bladder or bowel disturbance, saddle numbness or progressive leg weakness needs urgent medical care. Significant trauma or fever with severe pain also warrants prompt assessment.
For a medical emergency in Alberta, call 911. Health Link at 811 can help with non-emergency health advice when you are unsure where to go.
How this fits your daily life
- People living with recurring pain: Bring the broader story, including changes in sleep, work and activity. Ask how progress will be measured and what to do if symptoms flare rather than assuming every difficult day means starting over.
Explore the full Who we serve directory for other work, sport and life situations. These examples help you prepare a conversation; they do not mean everyone with the same activity needs the same treatment.
A useful question for your appointment
“What findings support an SI-joint explanation, and what other sources of pain need consideration?”
Which REVIVELAB service should you discuss?
- Physiotherapy — discuss assessment, movement and a rehabilitation plan.
These are options to discuss, not a recommendation to book every treatment. Please speak with a qualified professional at REVIVELAB for an assessment and advice tailored to you.
Visiting from Eau Claire or nearby
All appointments take place at our Bridgeland clinic, 217 4 St NE, Unit 105, Calgary. We do not have a separate clinic in each neighbourhood. See the Eau Claire area guide, browse surrounding Calgary communities, or check directions and clinic hours.
Book an appointment through Jane, or call 403 235 0535 if you are unsure which appointment to choose.
Patient information source
Read the public patient resource informing this guide . Accessed October 29, 2026. International resources may describe different healthcare pathways; local emergency numbers are given above.