PSIS pain refers to pain felt in the area near the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS), a bony prominence at the back of the hip. The PSIS is the area of the hip where major ligaments attach.
Understanding PSIS Pain
Location of the Pain
- The pain is specifically localized within 1 cm of the posterior superior iliac spine.
- This region is significant because it is where major hip ligaments connect to the bone.
- Accurately identifying the source of pain in this specific location helps distinguish it from other types of hip or lower back discomfort.
Connection to SI Joint Dysfunction
- According to the reference, if you can pinpoint the pain within 1 cm of the PSIS twice in a row, it is highly suggestive of Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction.
- The SI joint is located just below the PSIS, and problems with this joint can cause referred pain in the PSIS region.
How to Identify
- A healthcare professional would palpate (feel by hand) the area around the PSIS to pinpoint the exact location of the pain.
- If the pain can be consistently reproduced within 1 cm of the PSIS during two separate examinations, it indicates that the PSIS region is the source of discomfort.
Significance
- The PSIS region serves as a key landmark for identifying SI joint dysfunction.
- Pain in this specific location often signals problems with the way the SI joint is functioning.
Summary of PSIS pain
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Within 1 cm of the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) |
| Significance | Indicates potential SI joint dysfunction |
| Identification | Repeated pinpointing of pain by palpation |
| Clinical Importance | Helps differentiate from other types of lower back/hip pain |
Therefore, PSIS pain isn't just any pain in the hip area; it's specifically localized pain that, when consistently found near the PSIS, often suggests an underlying issue with the SI joint.
