Buttock Pain : How to check if you have Buttock Pain?

Pain along the sciatic nerve's course is referred to as sciatica. The sciatic nerve originates in the lower back and travels through the hips and buttocks to each leg.

A herniated disc or an expansion of bone pressing against a section of the nerve are the two most common causes of sciatica. This causes swelling, pain, and usually some numbness in the affected leg.

Despite the fact that sciatica pain can be excruciatingly unpleasant, most people improve with therapy in a few weeks. Surgery might be necessary for people with severe sciatica, significant leg weakness, or bowel or bladder problems.

Causes

When the sciatic nerve is squeezed, sciatica develops. A herniated disc in the spine or a buildup of excess bone, sometimes referred to as bone spurs, on the spinal bones are the two most frequent causes. Occasionally, a tumour may irritate the nerve. A disorder like diabetes may affect the nerves.

How to check if you have Buttock Pain?

Over time, mild sciatica typically goes away. If self-care techniques do not help symptoms, contact your doctor. Call if the pain is severe, lasts longer than a week, or worsens. Access immediate medical attention if the following occur:

• Along with sudden, acute pain in the low back or leg, there may also be numbness or muscle weakness in a limb.
• Pain following a violent injury, such as one sustained in a car accident
• Inability to control one's bowels or bladder

Risk Factors

Sciatica risk factors include:

Age. Age-related alterations to the spine, such as herniated discs and bone spurs, are the most common causes of sciatica.

Obesity. Obesity puts more strain on the spine.

Occupation. Work that involves twisting the back, lifting large objects, or long-distance driving may contribute to sciatica.

Sitting for long periods of time. Sciatica is more common in those who spend a lot of time sitting or are inactive than it is in those who are active.

Diabetes. The risk of nerve damage is higher due to this condition, which alters how the body uses blood sugar.

Symptoms

Nearly everywhere along the nerve route may experience sciatica discomfort. A path from the low back to the buttock, the back of the thigh, and the calf are particularly likely to be followed.

The pain could be mild or it could be a burning, searing torment. On occasion, it can feel jolting or electrifying. It might get worse with coughing, sneezing, or extended sitting. Usually, sciatica only impacts one side of the body.

Additionally, some people experience tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in their feet or legs. There may be a pain in one area of the leg while there may be numbness in another.

Prevention

Sciatica might recur, and its prevention is not always achievable. To safeguard your back try the following:

Regular exercise. Work the core muscles, the ones in the lower back and abdomen necessary for proper posture and alignment, to keep the back strong. A medical professional may make suggestions for exercises.

Maintain proper posture while sitting. A seat with armrests, a swivel base, and good lower back support is recommended. Place a cushion or rolled towel in the small of the back to maintain its natural curve for better low back support. Keep your hips and knees level.

Make proper use of your physique. When standing for extended amounts of time, occasionally rest one foot on a stool or small box. Lifting heavy objects requires using your legs, not your back. Hold the weight safely against your body. Avoid lifting and twisting simultaneously. Find a helper to lift any heavy objects.

Treatments

Some of the following therapies may be helpful for pain that does not go away with self-care techniques.

Medications

Medications from the following categories can be used to treat sciatica pain:

• Anti-inflammatories
• Corticosteroids
• Antidepressants
• Anti-epileptic drugs
• Opioids

Physical exercise

A healthcare professional can develop a plan to assist in preventing future injuries once the pain has subsided. Exercises to promote a range of motion, strengthen the core, and correct posture are frequently included in this.

Steroid Injections

A corticosteroid injection into the region surrounding the painful nerve root may be helpful in some circumstances. One injection frequently alleviates pain. In one year, up to three may be administered.

Surgery 

Surgery can remove the bone spur or the area of the ruptured disc that is pressing on the nerve. However, surgery is typically reserved for cases of sciatica that result in extreme weakness, loss of bowel or bladder control, or pain that does not get better with other treatments.

Lifestyle changes and DIY remedies

Most sciatica sufferers are able to take care of themselves. Even though taking a day or two off could be beneficial, staying inactive will only make symptoms worse.

Other self-care practices that could be beneficial include:

Ice packs.  Apply a cold compress to the sore spot many times a day for up to 20 minutes each time. Use a frozen peas packet or an ice pack that has been wrapped in a fresh towel.

Hot towels. After two or three days, apply heat to the affected regions. Use a heating pad, heat lamp, or hot pack on its lowest setting. Try using a warm pack and a cold pack, one at a time, for persistent pain.

Stretching. Low back stretching exercises could offer some assistance. Hold on for at least 30 seconds while doing the stretch. When stretching, try to avoid jerking, bouncing, or twisting.

Medications. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, and other brands) and naproxen sodium (Aleve) are both painkillers that can occasionally aid with sciatica. Only use as instructed.

Complications of Buttock Pain

Most sciatica sufferers fully heal, frequently without any kind of treatment. However, sciatica can harm nerves. Seek emergency medical help if:

• Sensation loss in the afflicted leg
• The affected leg is weak
• A lack of bladder or bowel control

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