Impairment-based examination and disability management of an elderly woman with sacroiliac region pain

Background and Purpose. The purpose of this case report is to describe the use of a cluster of sacroiliac tests in conjunction with an impairment-based model of examination, diagnosis, and management of sacroiliac region pain. Case Description. The patient was a 74-year-old woman with an 18-month history of low back, left buttock, and groin pain following a misstep. The initial symptoms were intermittent. The symptoms became constant and limited her walking tolerance to 5 minutes, which affected her ability to care for her grandchildren. She was examined using a cluster of sacroiliac tests that examined: (1) innominate active mobility, (2) innominate positional symmetry, and (3) sacroiliac ligament tenderness. Outcomes. Following 4 treatments for identified impairments, the patient had unlimited walking tolerance and she resumed an active caregiving role for her grandchildren. Discussion. This case illustrates the use of an impairment-based model for examination and management of an elderly patient with what appeared to be sacroiliac joint dysfunction.