Buttock Pain

What is buttock pain?

Buttock pain includes any type of discomfort in the area of the buttocks. The buttocks are made up of three gluteal muscles behind the pelvis that help support the body while standing and enable many movements of the legs, hips and trunk. The buttocks also contain many nerves and blood vessels, while layers of fat cushion the pelvis when you are sitting.

Injury of one or more of the gluteal muscles, especially the gluteus maximus, which is the body’s largest muscle, can cause buttock pain. Buttock pain may also be caused by diseases, disorders and conditions of the anus or rectum, as well as other nearby regions, such as the pelvis, tailbone, groin, and lower back.

Anyone can be affected by buttock pain. Buttock pain can be described in a variety of ways, such as pressure, numbness, tingling or burning. Depending on the cause, buttock pain can begin suddenly and disappear relatively quickly, such as from a contusion due to a minor injury. Buttock pain can also develop with time and occur intermittently, such as with sciatica.

Some causes of buttock pain can be serious or lead to serious complications. Seek prompt medical care if you have unexplained buttock pain or you are concerned about the pain. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have fallen and have sudden, severe buttock, hip or back pain, an inability to walk, or deformity of the leg or hip.