Iliac crest pain can result from several different underlying issues.
It's impossible to definitively say exactly why your ilium (the large, flaring bone at the top of your pelvis) hurts without a proper medical evaluation. However, here's a breakdown of potential causes, based on the information available:
Possible Causes of Iliac Pain
The following issues can lead to iliac crest pain:
- Muscle Weakness: Weak muscles surrounding the hip and pelvis can contribute to pain and instability.
- Trauma: A direct blow or injury to the iliac crest can cause bruising, inflammation, and pain. This could be from a fall, sports injury, or car accident.
- Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) to the ilium. Dysfunction in this joint can refer pain to the iliac crest area.
- Growth Plate Inflammation: In adolescents, the growth plate (apophysis) of the iliac crest can become inflamed due to overuse, especially in athletes. This is also known as apophysitis.
- Ligament Tears: Ligaments support the structures around the iliac crest. Tears or sprains in these ligaments can cause pain.
- Muscle Issues: Strains, tears, or inflammation in the muscles that attach to the iliac crest (such as the abdominal muscles or hip flexors) can cause pain.
- Rare Causes: In rare instances, bone cancer could be the source of iliac crest pain, though this is much less likely than the other causes.
What to Do If Your Ilium Hurts
Since the causes of iliac pain are varied, it's important to consult with a doctor or physical therapist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. They will likely perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests, such as X-rays or an MRI, to determine the source of your pain.
