Causes of Hip and Buttock Pain

Pain in the hip and buttock region affects many people. Pain experienced in this area may originate in the hip itself or be referred from conditions outside the hip.

Most hip and buttock pain is mechanical and can be resolved through conservative treatments, but some causes can be serious. Any pain that is severe, does not resolve within a few days, or progresses requires medical evaluation.

Sciatica

Sciatica describes irritation or compression of the large sciatic nerve. It typically causes pain in the lower back, hip, buttock and the back of the leg. The condition is most commonly caused by a herniated disc in the lower spine. A herniated disc develops when the jellylike center portion of a spinal disc pushes out of its normal confines, which can put pressure on nearby nerves. Other conditions, such as age-related degeneration of the spine and bone spurs, can also irritate the sciatic nerve and cause pain.

Sciatic pain may be accompanied by muscle weakness, numbness, tingling and loss of sensation along the path of the nerve.

In most cases of sciatica, pain is limited to one side. This condition may be treated with antiinflammatory medications and exercise. Severe cases of sciatica may require surgical treatment.

Sacroiliac Joint Pain

Causes of Nerve Pain in the Hip & Leg

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The sacroiliac joint is formed by the sacrum -- the bottom of the spinal column -- and the pelvis. **This joint is susceptible to injury.

** Pain in the buttocks and hip may originate from the sacroiliac joint.

Individuals who sit for long periods of time may have pain in these joints due to tight muscles and ligaments.

Pain may also be caused by trauma, arthritis or pregnancy. Treatment for sacroiliac joint pain includes antiinflammatory medication, cortisone injection and exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the joint 3.

Piriformis Syndrome

The piriformis is a small muscle in the center of the buttock. This muscle is active during running and walking and is susceptible to stress.

When the piriformis is stressed, it can tighten and cause pain in the hip and buttocks. The sciatic nerve travels very close to, and in some cases, directly through the piriformis muscle.

When the muscle tightens and spasms, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve causing many of the same symptoms that occur with herniated disc-related sciatica. Treatment includes rest from offending activities, stretching of the tight muscle and strengthening of all the muscles in the pelvic region.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Tai Chi Exercises for the Sciatica Nerve in the Back

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Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the spine and the sacroiliac joints 4.

It can progress and affect other joints throughout the body, but initial symptoms usually begin in the hips and lower spine. Hip, buttock and low back pain are common. In some cases, this condition may also affect internal organs, including the heart and lungs. Nonsurgical treatment for this condition includes physical therapy and antiinflammatory drugs or other medication for pain. Severe cases of ankylosing spondylitis can cause a permanent, stooped posture and may require surgery.

Other Causes

Other conditions and injuries can also cause hip and buttock pain.

For example, high hamstring muscle strains or tears can cause these symptoms, particularly among athletes. These injuries can develop suddenly or evolve gradually due to overuse. Blockage of the arteries supplying the legs -- known as aortoiliac occlusive disease -- is a less common cause of posterior hip and buttock pain. Hardening of the arteries is the usual culprit for this condition. Impingement, or compression, of muscles or tendons in the pelvis and hip region can also cause buttock and posterior hip pain.

Reviewed by: Tina M. St. John, M.D.