Left Buttock Pain: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Q: Left Buttock Pain: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Hello： It may be tendonitis. <br>You can visit a nearby neurologist for treatment, and an examination is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Pain in the left buttock?

Hello Dr.
Yeh,
About two weeks ago, I started experiencing pain in my left buttock.
The symptoms are as follows: 1.
My entire left calf feels numb.
2.
The left side of my body feels somewhat cold, while the right side is at a normal temperature.
3.
I am unable to squat; sometimes I can squat, but I cannot maintain it for more than one minute.
4.
Occasionally, there is swelling and a warm sensation in my left buttock.
5.
I cannot sleep on my side due to pain; I can only sleep on my back.
6.
The pain is most intense at night and continues until I wake up in the morning.
During the day, the pain is less severe, possibly because sitting does not strain the nerves or muscles as much.
About three years ago, I also had pain in my left buttock.
I had an X-ray of my lumbar spine and nerve testing, both of which were normal.
I then visited the orthopedic department at Tzu Chi Dalin Hospital, where the doctor gave me an injection that provided immediate relief.
Recently, the pain has recurred, and I am unsure of the cause.
I have seen both Western and traditional Chinese medicine practitioners in Taipei, but there has been no improvement.
The doctor who treated me previously is no longer in practice, so I am uncertain about what to do next.
Three years ago, I lived in Taichung, but last year my company transferred me to Taipei.
I wonder if the weather has any impact.
If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult? Could you recommend a physician in Taipei? Thank you for your patience in reading this, Dr.
Yeh.

sunny, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/08/24

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology

Hello: It may be tendonitis.
You can visit a nearby neurologist for treatment, and an examination is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2007/08/24

More Info

Left buttock pain can be a complex issue, often stemming from various underlying causes. Based on the symptoms you've described, it seems that your condition may involve nerve irritation or compression, possibly related to the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through the buttocks and into the legs. Let's break down your symptoms and explore potential causes and treatment options.

Symptoms Breakdown
1. Numbness in the Left Leg: This could indicate nerve involvement, possibly due to compression or irritation. Conditions such as sciatica, herniated discs, or spinal stenosis can lead to numbness and tingling sensations in the legs.

2. Cold Sensation on the Left Side: This may suggest vascular issues or nerve dysfunction. When nerves are compressed, they can affect blood flow, leading to a sensation of coldness.

3. Difficulty Squatting: Pain during squatting can be indicative of muscular or joint issues in the hip or lower back. It may also relate to the sciatic nerve being irritated during certain movements.

4. Swelling and Warmth in the Left Buttock: These symptoms could suggest inflammation, which may be due to a variety of causes, including bursitis, tendonitis, or even an infection.

5. Pain While Sleeping: The inability to sleep on your side due to pain can be a sign of significant discomfort, often associated with conditions affecting the hip joint or lower back.

6. Worsening Pain at Night: This is a common characteristic of many musculoskeletal conditions, as inflammation can increase when lying down.

Possible Causes
1. Sciatica: This is one of the most common causes of buttock pain that radiates down the leg. It occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed, often due to a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.

2. Piriformis Syndrome: The piriformis muscle, located in the buttock region, can sometimes irritate the sciatic nerve, leading to pain and numbness.

3. Herniated Disc: A herniated disc in the lumbar spine can press on nerves that lead to the buttocks and legs, causing pain and neurological symptoms.

4. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones) in the hip can lead to pain in the buttock area.

5. Muscle Strain: Overuse or injury to the muscles in the lower back or buttocks can lead to pain and discomfort.

Recommended Actions
1. Consult a Specialist: Given your history and the recurrence of symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a specialist. An orthopedic surgeon or a neurologist would be appropriate choices. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to assess the spine and surrounding structures.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the hip and lower back, improve flexibility, and alleviate pressure on the nerves.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen or naproxen) can help manage inflammation and pain. In some cases, a doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections for more severe pain.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Consider ergonomic adjustments at work, especially since you mentioned a recent job change. Ensure your workstation is set up to minimize strain on your back and hips.

5. Alternative Therapies: Acupuncture, chiropractic care, or massage therapy may provide relief for some individuals suffering from musculoskeletal pain.

6. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including when they occur, their intensity, and any activities that exacerbate or relieve the pain. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider.

Conclusion
Your symptoms suggest a potential issue with nerve involvement or musculoskeletal strain. Given your previous experience with similar pain and the ineffectiveness of treatments in your current location, seeking a specialist's opinion is crucial. They can provide a tailored treatment plan based on a comprehensive evaluation. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to seek help.

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