SI Joint Pain

Patient presents with complaints consistent with sacroiliac (SI) joint pain.  Onset of pain is described as [onset: e.g., gradual, sudden], located in the [location: e.g., lower back, buttock, groin, thigh], and characterized as [character: e.g., sharp, dull, aching, throbbing].  Pain is [exacerbating factors: e.g., aggravated by prolonged standing, sitting, bending, twisting, walking, climbing stairs] and [relieving factors: e.g., relieved by rest, ice, heat, medication].  Patient denies [associated symptoms: e.g., numbness, tingling, weakness, bowel or bladder dysfunction] radiating down the leg.  Physical examination reveals [physical exam findings: e.g., tenderness to palpation over the SI joint, positive FABER test, positive Gaenslen's test, limited lumbar range of motion].  Differential diagnosis includes lumbar radiculopathy, piriformis syndrome, and hip osteoarthritis.  Assessment: Sacroiliac joint dysfunction (ICD-10 code: M53.1).  Plan: Conservative management including [treatment plan: e.g., physical therapy focusing on core strengthening and stabilization exercises, NSAIDs for pain relief, SI joint belt for support, patient education on proper body mechanics].  Follow-up scheduled in [duration: e.g., 2 weeks] to assess response to treatment.  Consider referral to pain management specialist or orthopedist if symptoms persist or worsen.