Anyone navigating SI joint fusion complications?

Good morning.
Can't say I have had surgery for that problem but I did find out that I had partial SI sacralization which predisposes me for what happened to you. Some of what you mention are likely related.

I am an exercise physiologist by training and might suggest you consider discussion with a provider regarding how your body mechanics have changed that are impacting your activities. You might need to keep this in mind moving forward to what your body needs most.

Take care of yourself, listen to your body and your support system and get the level of activity that you need!

Hello @al21, I'd like to invite @cmeadows09, @fourof5zs and @suzfuse46 to this discussion as they have all shared their experiences with an SI joint fusion.

The 2017 lumbar surgery for scoliosis, herniation, stenosis from L1 to SI left me with a tingling sensation and skin extremely sensitive to touch in the SI area. In 2019 I had replacement of screws in my lumbar spine and extended the fusion from the SI into the pelvic bones. It didn't improve my pain level or function but it seems to have gotten worse. Five years later, it hasn't been addressed or any further investigation by any of my doctors I have been working with for cervical and thoracic problems. I would say that follow up with your doctors while the problem is still current or find a specialist who is willing to listen and come up with a feasible solution. I wish you the best of luck.

With all respect, CrossFit is a dangerous activity. The fusion should help contain pain and sciatica, but yeah, impact sports are now off the table. I'm glad you have some relief from the SI pain after surgery.

I'm a former marathoner and my lumbar spine is a disaster area. I have every lumbar pathology, but got relief about 10 years ago with laminotomies at S1, L5, and L4. I am putting off fusion for as long as possible. I am in the gym every day and I work on stretching, core, cardio and strength. I took up spinning about a year ago and love it. (I also had both knees replaced in 2022, so impact work is off my table too!)

To feed the need for fitness, I suggest giving spin a try. I challenge myself with different routines, and take a class or two at the gym, but much prefer working out on my own. I sweat easily anyway, and after a 45 minute spin session, I'm tired but feel extremely cleaned out from the sweating.

So that's my exercise suggestion. I also work with a trainer twice a week and that keeps my workout routine from becoming routine, if you take my meaning. I lost 30 lbs last year, from 190 to 160 (ironic because I weighed in the 140s when I ran marathons). I turn 70 in a few weeks and feel great.

As for a specialist, I'd find a spine surgeon/neurologist in his/her late 30s to late 40s with a good pedigree from med school and residency - Mayo and Cleveland Clinic produce some great orthopedic surgeons.

I hope that helps. I remember how hard it was when I had to stop running, so I get how you may be feeling. Look back on your accomplishments with pride and write your next chapter.

All the best to you! Joe