Investigating the Effect of a Sacroiliac Belt on the Kinematics of Trunk, Pelvis, and Hip Joints in Military Personnel Suffering from Sacroiliac Joint Pain and Healthy Military Personnel

Abstract

Background: Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) pain can cause frailty and pain in functional activities, especially walking. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate and compare the effect of a sacroiliac belt on kinematics of the trunk, pelvis, and hip joints in military personnel with SIJ pain and healthy military personnel.

Methods: In this study, 30 military personnel, including 15 healthy individuals and 15 individuals with SIJ pain, were enrolled according to the inclusion criteria. A motion analysis device equipped with 7 cameras was used to measure the kinematic variables, which include the range of motion (ROM) of the trunk, pelvis, and hip joint in 3 planes and 3 axes. Spatial and temporal variables were also calculated. Statistical analysis was carried out using paired t-test and independent t-test.

Results: A sacroiliac belt use caused the trunk flexion/extension ROM to change on the right side of the body in both patient and healthy groups. There were also significant changes in pelvic lateral flexion on both sides of the body in the patient group and in the pelvic rotation ROM on the right side of the body in the healthy individuals. In the hip joint, sacroiliac belt use was able to make a significant change in the hip abduction/adduction and the flexion/extension ROM on the right side of the body in both healthy and patient groups.

Conclusion: The findings show that a sacroiliac belt use can increase SIJ stability in military personnel with SIJ pain. Therefore, it is a recommended treatment for these patients.