Why Does Hitting the Left Buttock Cause Abdominal Pain?

If you tap on the left side of your buttocks, it causes cramping pain in your abdomen?

Hello, could you please explain why I experience abdominal pain when I tap on the left side of my buttocks? I’ve asked others, and it seems they don’t have this issue.
Should I see a doctor for this?

Yang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/13

Dr. Zhang Kebin reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello Ms.
Yang! You inquired about experiencing abdominal pain when tapping your left buttock.
It is unclear which specific area of your abdomen is painful, how long the pain lasts, and the severity of the pain.
I recommend that you visit a gastroenterologist at a hospital for a professional evaluation.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2021/04/13

More Info

When you experience abdominal pain upon hitting or tapping your left buttock, it can be perplexing, especially if others do not report similar sensations. This phenomenon may be attributed to several anatomical and physiological factors that connect the regions of your body involved.

Firstly, the human body is interconnected through a complex network of nerves and muscles. The left buttock is innervated by the sacral and lumbar nerves, which also supply sensation and motor function to the lower abdomen. When you strike the left buttock, it may stimulate these nerves, leading to referred pain in the abdominal area. This is known as "referred pain," where discomfort is felt in a different location from the source of the pain.
Additionally, the muscles in the buttock region, particularly the gluteus maximus and gluteus medius, are closely related to the muscles of the abdomen. If there is any tension or strain in these muscles, it could lead to discomfort in the abdominal area when impacted. This is particularly true if you have a history of muscle strain or injury in that region.

Another consideration is the possibility of underlying conditions. For instance, if you have any issues with your lumbar spine, such as a herniated disc or sciatica, hitting the buttock could exacerbate nerve irritation, leading to abdominal pain. Similarly, conditions affecting the gastrointestinal system, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other functional gastrointestinal disorders, could manifest as abdominal pain in response to physical stimuli.

If the pain is mild and transient, it may not be a cause for concern. However, if you experience persistent or severe pain, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, fever, or significant discomfort, it would be prudent to seek medical evaluation. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough assessment, which may include a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

In summary, while hitting the left buttock causing abdominal pain can be attributed to nerve pathways, muscle connections, or underlying conditions, it is essential to monitor the situation. If the pain persists or worsens, consulting a healthcare professional would be advisable to ensure that any potential issues are addressed appropriately.

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