Which Medical Specialty to Consult for Muscle Atrophy in the Buttocks?

Q: Which Medical Specialty to Consult for Muscle Atrophy in the Buttocks?

Hello： Muscle atrophy should be confirmed by a physician. I recommend that you visit a hospital to consult with a neurologist for an assessment. Typically, muscle atrophy is caused by nerve injury. Thank you for your correspondence. Dr. Tsai Jue-ren, Hualien H

If you are experiencing muscle atrophy in the gluteal muscles, you should consult a specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, or a Neurologist, depending on the underlying cause of the atrophy?

My mother is 58 years old and started hormone therapy during menopause, but she stopped using hormones about two to three years ago.
Since then, she has experienced difficulty sitting for long periods; whenever she sits too long, the muscles in her buttocks become very painful.
Initially, she didn't think much of it, but over time, it has become a significant issue.
If she needs to sit for an extended period, she has to apply a topical analgesic similar to a pain relief ointment.
I've seen the area where she applies the medication, and it appears to have some muscle atrophy; it looks somewhat sunken in.
When I press on that area, it doesn't feel like the firm muscle support we typically have in our buttocks, but rather as if there is a loss of muscle mass.
I would like to ask the doctor, what type of specialist should we consult for my mother's condition? Can we go directly to a rehabilitation medicine clinic for consultation?

Carol, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/01/10

Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine

Hello: Muscle atrophy should be confirmed by a physician.
I recommend that you visit a hospital to consult with a neurologist for an assessment.
Typically, muscle atrophy is caused by nerve injury.
Thank you for your correspondence.
Dr.
Tsai Jue-ren, Hualien Hospital.

Reply Date: 2007/01/10

More Info

For your mother's condition of muscle atrophy in the buttocks, especially considering her age and hormonal changes, it would be advisable to consult a specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, commonly known as a physiatrist. This specialty focuses on restoring function and improving quality of life for individuals with physical impairments or disabilities, which includes muscle atrophy.

Muscle atrophy can occur for various reasons, including disuse, hormonal changes, or underlying medical conditions. In your mother's case, the cessation of hormone therapy may have contributed to changes in muscle mass and strength. Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can lead to a decrease in muscle mass and strength, which may explain the discomfort she experiences when sitting for extended periods.
A physiatrist can conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying causes of the muscle atrophy and associated pain. They may perform a physical examination, assess her medical history, and possibly recommend imaging studies such as MRI or ultrasound to evaluate the muscle condition further.
In addition to a physiatrist, it may also be beneficial for your mother to see a physical therapist. Physical therapists can develop a tailored exercise program aimed at strengthening the affected muscles and improving overall function. They can also provide guidance on proper body mechanics and posture, which can help alleviate discomfort during prolonged sitting.

If the muscle atrophy is significant, the physiatrist may consider other interventions, such as electrical stimulation therapy, which can help stimulate muscle contraction and promote muscle growth. In some cases, they might also refer her to an orthopedic specialist if there are concerns about joint or structural issues contributing to her symptoms.

It is essential to address muscle atrophy early on, as prolonged muscle weakness can lead to further complications, including decreased mobility and increased risk of falls. Therefore, seeking consultation from a rehabilitation specialist is a proactive step in managing her condition.

In summary, your mother should consider consulting a physiatrist for her muscle atrophy and associated pain. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and develop a rehabilitation plan tailored to her needs. Additionally, involving a physical therapist in her care can significantly enhance her recovery and improve her quality of life.

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