Iliolumbar ligaments are some of the most important ligaments in the entire body. They literally hold lower spine together, affixing it to stronger support bones. Trauma or injury to these strong ligaments not only weakens them, but it can lead to a degenerative process that causes further pain and restricted movement. Traditional surgery can help an iliolumbar injury, but it has long been known that the best course of treatment would be through new techniques and regenerative medicine. The Institute of Regenerative & Molecular Orthopaedics has developed and performs stem cell treatment and platelet rich plasma treatments that are minimally invasive and very effective.
What Are They? Where are They?
The Iliolumbar ligament plays a crucial role in supporting the lower spine. On one end, these ligaments are connected to the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae (L4, L5). On the other end is the iliac bone, located on the back of the pelvis. Ligaments are fibrous tissues that hold bones together, providing support while allowing movement in joints. The sacroiliac joint, which the iliolumbar ligament supports, helps provide stability to the base of the spine while providing the give necessary for such movement as walking, running, and adjusting body position.
Symptoms of Iliolumbar Ligament Injury
The greatest symptom experienced from iliolumbar ligament sprain or injury is severe pain. This stabbing pain is not always present, but comes on suddenly, lingering for a long while before subsiding. The pain grows worse during physical activity and from long periods of remaining in a sitting position. The area of the lower back where the ligaments are can be tender to the touch, and many who suffer this injury experience a feeling of general weakness. This type of injury can lead to more serious injuries of the spine, which often results due to a degenerative process, resulting in herniated discs or nerve root compression.
Treatment
Treatment of iliolumbar ligaments often depends on the severity. Because the back and spine are such sensitive areas, surgery is often a last resort. Traditional non-invasive treatment is in the form of ice packs, rest, over-the-counter analgesics such as ibuprofen, and physical therapy. If this doesn’t work, surgery becomes more of an option. Today, new stem cell treatment and regenerative medicine using platelet rich plasma provide another option before full-out surgery. Since regenerative medicine restores ligament tissue, it can not only fully heal the ligament but prevent further degeneration.