A finite element analysis of sacroiliac joint ligaments in response to different loading conditions.

Study Design: A finite element analysis of the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) and its associated ligaments utilizing a three-dimensional model constructed from computed tomography scans.

Objective: To characterize the sacroiliac ligament strains in response to flexion, extension, and axial rotation loads and quantify the changes in SIJ stress and angular displacement in response to changes in ligament stiffness.

Summary Of Background Data: The SIJ may be a major contributor to low back pain in up to 13% to 30% of patients.