Hello all this is my first post. I'm guessing from previous that most members are in the US. I live in the UK so as you probably know the whole medical treatment system is totally different.

I am 30 yrs old and have suffered from SI pain for about 8 years. I don't think it was a direct result of some injury, it just kind of crept up on me It has been getting progressively worse to the point now I take pain medication almost every day. I would say that mostly the pain is bearable but now and then I have episodes where I am in agony, I cannot get in or out of bed or vehicles, it is extremely painful to walk, I cannot bend or raise legs to put socks etc on and strong painkillers don't really seem to help. These extreme episodes used to be few and far between but are becoming more and more frequent.

I have been treated by two chiropractors and two physiotherapists over the years and whilst they provide a little bit of short term improvement, I have still noticed worsening of the condition overall. The past few times I've seen my GP I have just been prescribed more painkillers and muscle relaxants (which only help to a certain degree), but never any diagnostics or long-term solutions. I use a SI belt now and then but find it only decreases pain by approximately 10%, if that.

On my last visit to my GP I basically said "enough is enough', please refer me to a specialist, which they have and I have my appointment on the 26th Oct.

Sorry for the long post but my question to fellow sufferers is what would the long term prognosis be for this condition? I have a job which is physically demanding at times and although I have never had any time off because of my pain, I am now starting to notice it affecting my work. I hate to think what position I'll be in if the condition continues to get worse at the rate it has been.

Many thanks.