Buttock Dents: Causes, Concerns, and Care

Hip depression

Hello Dr.
Wu, I work in special education, and due to my interactions with students, I sometimes experience strains or sprains.
When I visit the doctor, they usually give me injections to help me recover quickly.
I've had this type of treatment many times, and it's quite common in rural areas, so I've become accustomed to it.
Today, I suddenly noticed a dent in a specific area of my left buttock.
I remember it wasn't as noticeable at first, so I didn't pay much attention to it.
When I look at it in the mirror from the side, I can see it, and it really feels like a dent when I touch it.
However, if I push the surrounding tissue upward, the dent becomes less visible.
I have consulted both a surgeon and a dermatologist, and they both said it is related to the injections.
The doctors mentioned that as long as there is no discomfort, it shouldn't be a concern.
However, I am still worried about whether it will continue to deepen.
Should I consult another specialist to investigate whether the dent could affect my bones? Do I need to get an X-ray? Or could there be other causes for the dent, such as aging or atrophy? Please advise me on what steps I should take next and any precautions I should be aware of.
I am also practicing a form of exercise that involves striking; can I continue with this activity? I am grateful for the assistance from the doctors at Taiwan e-Hospital in explaining some medical issues.
Thank you, doctor.

Tian Shi Kai Ma, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/02

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

A literal description without actually seeing the lesion cannot confirm the diagnosis; it is recommended to have a dermatologist evaluate it for proper assessment.
It is advisable to first verify the components of the injected substance before further discussion.
Exercise should not be affected.

Reply Date: 2015/12/02

More Info

Understanding buttock dents can be a source of concern for many individuals, especially when they notice changes in their body that seem unusual or alarming. In your case, the dent in your left buttock, which you have observed and described, raises several important considerations regarding its potential causes, implications, and the appropriate steps to take moving forward.

Causes of Buttock Dents
1. Injection-Related Changes: Given your history of receiving injections in the buttock area, it is plausible that the dent you are experiencing is related to the repeated intramuscular injections. These injections can sometimes lead to localized atrophy of the muscle tissue or fat necrosis, which may manifest as a dent or indentation in the skin. This is especially true if the injections were administered improperly or if there was a reaction to the medication injected.

2. Muscle Atrophy: Muscle atrophy can occur due to disuse, injury, or certain medical conditions. If you have had any injuries or have been less active on one side of your body, this could lead to a noticeable difference in muscle mass between the two sides.

3. Fat Loss or Redistribution: Changes in body composition due to weight loss, aging, or hormonal changes can also result in indentations or changes in the contour of the body. As we age, our skin loses elasticity, and fat distribution can change, leading to a more pronounced appearance of underlying structures.

4. Other Medical Conditions: While less common, certain medical conditions can cause changes in skin texture or muscle tone, leading to indentations. Conditions such as lipodystrophy, which affects fat distribution, or localized infections can also be considered.

Concerns and Considerations
- Progression of the Dent: You mentioned a concern about whether the dent will continue to worsen. While it is difficult to predict without a thorough examination, if the dent is indeed due to injection-related changes, it may not necessarily progress further unless additional injections are administered or if there are other underlying factors at play.

- Impact on Bone Structure: Generally, a dent in the soft tissue of the buttock should not directly affect the underlying bone unless there is significant muscle atrophy or other structural changes. However, if you have concerns about bone health or integrity, imaging studies such as X-rays may be warranted to rule out any underlying issues.

Recommended Actions
1. Follow-Up with a Specialist: If you continue to have concerns about the dent, consider consulting with a specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon or a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician. They can provide a more comprehensive evaluation and determine if any further imaging or intervention is necessary.

2. Monitor Changes: Keep an eye on the dent for any changes in size, shape, or associated symptoms such as pain or discomfort. Documenting these changes can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

3. Physical Activity: Since you mentioned practicing a form of exercise (拍打功), it is generally advisable to continue exercising unless you experience pain or discomfort in the affected area. Exercise can help maintain muscle tone and overall health, but be sure to listen to your body and avoid any movements that exacerbate the issue.

4. Consider Physical Therapy: If the dent is related to muscle atrophy or weakness, a physical therapist can help design a program to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve overall function.

5. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet and staying active can support overall muscle health and body composition, potentially minimizing the appearance of indentations over time.

In conclusion, while the dent in your buttock may be concerning, it is essential to approach the situation with a clear understanding of potential causes and appropriate next steps. Consulting with healthcare professionals who can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation will be crucial in addressing your concerns effectively. Remember, it is always better to seek further evaluation if you feel uncertain or anxious about any changes in your body.

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