What causes pain in the buttocks when sitting. How to identify symptoms of buttock pain. What are the most effective treatments for buttock discomfort. When to seek medical attention for pain in the buttocks.

Understanding the Anatomy of Buttock Pain

Buttock pain when sitting can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. To understand why this pain occurs, it’s essential to have a basic grasp of the anatomy involved. The buttocks are composed of several muscles, nerves, and bones that work together to support our body and allow for movement.

The gluteal muscles, including the gluteus maximus, medius, and minimus, are the primary muscles in the buttocks. These muscles are responsible for hip extension, abduction, and rotation. The sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body, runs through the buttocks and down the legs. The coccyx, or tailbone, is located at the base of the spine and can be a source of pain when injured or irritated.

Key Anatomical Structures Involved in Buttock Pain

• Gluteal muscles
• Sciatic nerve
• Piriformis muscle
• Coccyx (tailbone)
• Sacroiliac joint
• Ischial tuberosity (sit bones)

Understanding these structures can help identify the potential causes of buttock pain and guide appropriate treatment options.

Common Causes of Buttock Pain When Sitting

There are several reasons why a person might experience pain in their buttocks while sitting. Some of the most common causes include:

Sciatica: A Common Culprit

Sciatica is a condition that results from compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. This can cause pain that radiates from the lower back through the buttocks and down the leg. Sciatica can be caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or other conditions that put pressure on the nerve.

Symptoms of sciatica may include:

• Sharp, shooting pain in the buttocks and leg
• Numbness or tingling in the affected leg
• Weakness in the leg or foot
• Pain that worsens when sitting for long periods

Piriformis Syndrome: When Muscles Cause Trouble

Piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle, located deep in the buttocks, compresses or irritates the sciatic nerve. This can cause symptoms similar to sciatica, but the pain is typically more localized to the buttocks area.

Symptoms of piriformis syndrome may include:

• Pain in the buttocks that may extend down the leg
• Discomfort when sitting for extended periods
• Pain when climbing stairs or walking uphill
• Difficulty with hip rotation and movement

Coccydynia: Tailbone Troubles

Coccydynia, or tailbone pain, is discomfort in the area around the coccyx. This condition can be caused by trauma, such as a fall, or prolonged pressure on the tailbone from sitting on hard surfaces.

Symptoms of coccydynia may include:

• Dull, achy pain in the tailbone area
• Sharp pain when moving from sitting to standing
• Increased pain when sitting for long periods
• Discomfort during bowel movements or sexual intercourse

Identifying Symptoms and Seeking Diagnosis

Recognizing the symptoms associated with buttock pain is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. While some symptoms may be common across different conditions, others can be specific to particular causes.

General Symptoms of Buttock Pain

• Discomfort or pain when sitting
• Difficulty moving from a sitting to standing position
• Pain that radiates down the leg
• Numbness or tingling in the buttocks or legs
• Muscle weakness in the affected area

If you experience persistent buttock pain, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. They may perform a physical examination, ask about your medical history, and possibly order imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to determine the underlying cause of your pain.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While some cases of buttock pain may resolve on their own, there are instances where medical attention is necessary. Seek medical care if you experience:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers
• Pain accompanied by fever or unexplained weight loss
• Sudden onset of weakness or numbness in the legs
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Pain resulting from a traumatic injury

Effective Treatments for Buttock Pain

The treatment for buttock pain depends on the underlying cause. Here are some common approaches to managing and alleviating discomfort:

Conservative Treatment Options

1. Rest and activity modification
2. Ice or heat therapy
3. Over-the-counter pain medications (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
4. Stretching exercises and physical therapy
5. Use of cushions or ergonomic seating

Medical Interventions

For more severe or persistent cases, medical interventions may be necessary:

• Prescription pain medications or muscle relaxants
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Nerve blocks or radiofrequency ablation for nerve-related pain
• Surgery in rare, severe cases (e.g., for herniated discs or severe piriformis syndrome)

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Changes

Preventing buttock pain and maintaining overall buttock health involves adopting certain lifestyle habits and making ergonomic adjustments. Here are some strategies to consider:

Ergonomic Considerations

• Use an ergonomic chair with proper lumbar support
• Adjust your workstation to promote good posture
• Take regular breaks from sitting and move around
• Use a standing desk or alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day

Exercise and Stretching Routines

Incorporating specific exercises and stretches into your daily routine can help strengthen the muscles in your buttocks and lower back, potentially reducing the risk of pain:

• Glute bridges
• Piriformis stretches
• Hip flexor stretches
• Hamstring stretches
• Core strengthening exercises

Consult with a physical therapist or fitness professional to develop a tailored exercise program that addresses your specific needs and concerns.

Alternative Therapies for Buttock Pain Relief

In addition to conventional treatments, some people find relief from buttock pain through alternative therapies. While scientific evidence for these approaches may vary, many individuals report positive results:

Complementary Approaches

• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Chiropractic care
• Yoga or Pilates
• Mindfulness meditation for pain management

It’s important to discuss these options with your healthcare provider before incorporating them into your treatment plan, especially if you have a diagnosed condition or are taking medications.

Long-term Management and Prognosis

Managing buttock pain often requires a multifaceted approach and may involve long-term strategies for optimal results. The prognosis for buttock pain varies depending on the underlying cause and the individual’s response to treatment.

Factors Affecting Long-term Outcomes

• Consistency in following treatment plans
• Adherence to lifestyle modifications and exercise routines
• Early intervention and accurate diagnosis
• Underlying health conditions
• Age and overall physical condition

For many individuals, a combination of treatments, lifestyle changes, and ongoing management can lead to significant improvement in buttock pain and overall quality of life. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers and adjusting treatment plans as needed are crucial for long-term success.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments

The field of pain management is constantly evolving, with new research and treatments emerging for conditions that cause buttock pain. Some areas of ongoing investigation include:

Promising Developments

• Advanced imaging techniques for more accurate diagnosis
• Targeted drug delivery systems for pain relief
• Regenerative medicine approaches, such as stem cell therapy
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques
• Wearable technology for pain monitoring and management

As research progresses, new treatment options may become available, potentially offering more effective and personalized approaches to managing buttock pain. Staying informed about these developments and discussing them with your healthcare provider can help you make informed decisions about your treatment options.

In conclusion, buttock pain when sitting can significantly impact daily life, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, many individuals find relief and improved function. By understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms, and exploring various treatment options, those experiencing buttock pain can work towards a more comfortable and pain-free lifestyle. Remember to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment plans tailored to your specific condition and needs.

Pain in buttocks when sitting: Causes and treatments

A person may experience pain in their buttocks when sitting for many reasons, including, minor injuries and bruises and more severe conditions, such as sciatica and damaged disks.

People spend a lot of time sitting down, and experiencing pain in the buttocks when sitting can cause concern. Pain in this area can be temporary due to a bruise or minor injury, but it can also result from a more serious, long-term condition.

In this article, we discuss possible symptoms and causes of buttock pain, diagnosis, and when a person should seek medical attention.

Symptoms may vary depending on the cause and location of the pain and can include:

• bruising or discoloration
• numbness and tingling
• tingling in the legs
• a sore tailbone (coccyx)
• swelling
• difficulty moving the muscle
• difficulty moving from a sitting to a standing position

Sometimes, the pain may go away on its own. Other times, medical treatment may be necessary.

There is a variety of reasons a person may experience pain in the buttocks when sitting down.

Conditions that may cause pain in the buttocks include:

Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition that results from compression or obstruction of the sciatic nerves. These are the two largest nerves in the body. They run from the lower spine, through the buttocks, to the knees.

Compressions due to a disk prolapse or the narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing pain and discomfort.

Sciatica can cause shooting pain, tingling, or numbness anywhere from the buttocks to the legs.

People may find that symptoms worsen when they sit for long periods, move, sneeze, or cough. Sciatica often resolves in 4–6 weeks, but sometimes it can last longer.

Treatment may include:

• over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• exercises and stretches
• heat packs
• physical therapy
• pain relief injections
• a procedure to prevent nerves in the back from sending pain signals
• surgery

Learn more about how sciatica causes buttock pain here.

Piriformis syndrome

The piriformis muscle is a pear-shaped muscle in the buttocks that extends from the base of the spine to the top of the thigh. Piriformis syndrome develops when the piriformis muscle irritates or compresses the sciatic nerve.

According to the National Academy of Sports Medicine, symptoms may include:

• pain in the buttocks
• pain down the back of the leg or thigh
• pain when sitting
• pain when walking up stairs or hills
• reduced motion of the hip joint

Treatment may include:

• OTC pain relievers
• stretches
• gentle exercise
• cold and heat therapy

Learn about nerve flossing exercises to relieve pain from sciatica and piriformis syndrome here.

Coccydynia

The coccyx is the last bone at the bottom of the spine, also known as the tailbone. Coccydynia is the medical name for pain in the tailbone. It can occur if a person injures or strains their coccyx or the surrounding muscles and ligaments.

Common causes of coccydynia may include:

• childbirth
• an injury or accident, such as a fall
• repeated or prolonged strain on the coccyx
• poor posture when sitting
• having overweight or underweight

Symptoms may include:

• pain that is dull and achy most of the time
• occasional sharp pain

People may find that the pain is worse when they sit down, move from sitting to standing, stand for extended periods, or bend down.

Coccydynia can also make having sex painful, and it can make it difficult to carry out everyday activities, such as passing the stool or driving.

Treatment may include:

• using a doughnut cushion
• OTC pain relief medicine
• prescription pain medication
• injections of anti-inflammatories, such as corticosteroids, or pain relievers into the coccyx or surrounding area
• surgery, in extreme cases

However, the primary treatment for coccydynia is time. Doctors advise people to manage the symptoms and wait for it to resolve. It usually takes a few weeks to a few months to fully heal.

Learn more about treatments for a painful tailbone here.

Bruising

Bruises are patches of discoloration that may appear on a person’s skin after an injury. Bruises happen when tiny blood vessels called capillaries break or burst underneath the skin, creating small amounts of internal bleeding.

Symptoms may include:

• blue or purple patches on light skin
• dark purple, brownish, or black patches on darker skin

Learn more about bruises on dark skin here.

Treatment is usually not necessary for bruises but can include:

• OTC pain relievers
• a cold compress or ice pack

Bruises usually go away by themselves within a couple of weeks, but people should seek medical attention if a bruise persists. A person should also contact a doctor if they have sudden unexplained bruising, as this could be due to an underlying condition.

Learn more about bone bruises here.

Other causes

Other causes of pain in the buttocks may include:

• a pilonidal cyst
• arthritis
• bursitis
• muscle strain
• sacroiliac joint dysfunction
• degenerative disk disease

To diagnose the cause of pain in the buttocks, a doctor will likely carry out a physical examination.

Sometimes, the reasons for the pain are evident. For example, a person has had a fall or experienced another type of injury. However, if there is no obvious reason, a doctor may need to carry out tests.

They may recommend an X-ray to rule out a break or fracture, or an MRI scan or CT scan to help identify other causes of the pain, such as arthritis.

If a doctor cannot make a diagnosis, they may refer the person to a specialist, such as a rheumatologist, orthopedic specialist, or physical therapist.

Learn about what to expect during a physical exam here.

There are many things a person can try at home to relieve pain in the buttocks, including:

• avoiding prolonged sitting
• moving around and stretching the legs regularly
• using a doughnut cushion
• applying hot packs to the lower back
• applying cold packs to the lower back
• wearing loose-fitting clothing
• taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

People can also try stretches or even yoga to try to relieve pain in the buttocks.

Learn about how to stretch out the tailbone here.

People should seek medical advice if:

• the pain does not start to improve within a few weeks
• simple home treatments do not relieve the pain
• the pain is severe

They should also contact a healthcare professional immediately if the pain co-occurs with:

• bleeding
• a high temperature
• pain in other areas than just the buttocks
• numbness or weakness in the legs
• difficulty controlling the bowels or bladder
• sharp stabbing or shooting pain

It could be that the cause of the pain is a fracture or an infection and needs further medical intervention.

Learn more about high temperature and fever here.

A number of factors can cause pain in the buttocks, but most are not a cause for concern.

The pain is usually due to an injury or a fall where a person has landed on their buttocks. People may wish to try some simple home treatments to alleviate the pain.

However, if the pain does not ease over time, people should seek medical attention, as it could be a sign of an underlying condition.

Pain in buttocks when sitting: Causes and treatments

A person may experience pain in their buttocks when sitting for many reasons, including, minor injuries and bruises and more severe conditions, such as sciatica and damaged disks.

People spend a lot of time sitting down, and experiencing pain in the buttocks when sitting can cause concern. Pain in this area can be temporary due to a bruise or minor injury, but it can also result from a more serious, long-term condition.

In this article, we discuss possible symptoms and causes of buttock pain, diagnosis, and when a person should seek medical attention.

Symptoms may vary depending on the cause and location of the pain and can include:

• bruising or discoloration
• numbness and tingling
• tingling in the legs
• a sore tailbone (coccyx)
• swelling
• difficulty moving the muscle
• difficulty moving from a sitting to a standing position

Sometimes, the pain may go away on its own. Other times, medical treatment may be necessary.

There is a variety of reasons a person may experience pain in the buttocks when sitting down.

Conditions that may cause pain in the buttocks include:

Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition that results from compression or obstruction of the sciatic nerves. These are the two largest nerves in the body. They run from the lower spine, through the buttocks, to the knees.

Compressions due to a disk prolapse or the narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing pain and discomfort.

Sciatica can cause shooting pain, tingling, or numbness anywhere from the buttocks to the legs.

People may find that symptoms worsen when they sit for long periods, move, sneeze, or cough. Sciatica often resolves in 4–6 weeks, but sometimes it can last longer.

Treatment may include:

• over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• exercises and stretches
• heat packs
• physical therapy
• pain relief injections
• a procedure to prevent nerves in the back from sending pain signals
• surgery

Learn more about how sciatica causes buttock pain here.

Piriformis syndrome

The piriformis muscle is a pear-shaped muscle in the buttocks that extends from the base of the spine to the top of the thigh. Piriformis syndrome develops when the piriformis muscle irritates or compresses the sciatic nerve.

According to the National Academy of Sports Medicine, symptoms may include:

• pain in the buttocks
• pain down the back of the leg or thigh
• pain when sitting
• pain when walking up stairs or hills
• reduced motion of the hip joint

Treatment may include:

• OTC pain relievers
• stretches
• gentle exercise
• cold and heat therapy

Learn about nerve flossing exercises to relieve pain from sciatica and piriformis syndrome here.

Coccydynia

The coccyx is the last bone at the bottom of the spine, also known as the tailbone. Coccydynia is the medical name for pain in the tailbone. It can occur if a person injures or strains their coccyx or the surrounding muscles and ligaments.

Common causes of coccydynia may include:

• childbirth
• an injury or accident, such as a fall
• repeated or prolonged strain on the coccyx
• poor posture when sitting
• having overweight or underweight

Symptoms may include:

• pain that is dull and achy most of the time
• occasional sharp pain

People may find that the pain is worse when they sit down, move from sitting to standing, stand for extended periods, or bend down.

Coccydynia can also make having sex painful, and it can make it difficult to carry out everyday activities, such as passing the stool or driving.

Treatment may include:

• using a doughnut cushion
• OTC pain relief medicine
• prescription pain medication
• injections of anti-inflammatories, such as corticosteroids, or pain relievers into the coccyx or surrounding area
• surgery, in extreme cases

However, the primary treatment for coccydynia is time. Doctors advise people to manage the symptoms and wait for it to resolve. It usually takes a few weeks to a few months to fully heal.

Learn more about treatments for a painful tailbone here.

Bruising

Bruises are patches of discoloration that may appear on a person’s skin after an injury. Bruises happen when tiny blood vessels called capillaries break or burst underneath the skin, creating small amounts of internal bleeding.

Symptoms may include:

• blue or purple patches on light skin
• dark purple, brownish, or black patches on darker skin

Learn more about bruises on dark skin here.

Treatment is usually not necessary for bruises but can include:

• OTC pain relievers
• a cold compress or ice pack

Bruises usually go away by themselves within a couple of weeks, but people should seek medical attention if a bruise persists. A person should also contact a doctor if they have sudden unexplained bruising, as this could be due to an underlying condition.

Learn more about bone bruises here.

Other causes

Other causes of pain in the buttocks may include:

• a pilonidal cyst
• arthritis
• bursitis
• muscle strain
• sacroiliac joint dysfunction
• degenerative disk disease

To diagnose the cause of pain in the buttocks, a doctor will likely carry out a physical examination.

Sometimes, the reasons for the pain are evident. For example, a person has had a fall or experienced another type of injury. However, if there is no obvious reason, a doctor may need to carry out tests.

They may recommend an X-ray to rule out a break or fracture, or an MRI scan or CT scan to help identify other causes of the pain, such as arthritis.

If a doctor cannot make a diagnosis, they may refer the person to a specialist, such as a rheumatologist, orthopedic specialist, or physical therapist.

Learn about what to expect during a physical exam here.

There are many things a person can try at home to relieve pain in the buttocks, including:

• avoiding prolonged sitting
• moving around and stretching the legs regularly
• using a doughnut cushion
• applying hot packs to the lower back
• applying cold packs to the lower back
• wearing loose-fitting clothing
• taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

People can also try stretches or even yoga to try to relieve pain in the buttocks.

Learn about how to stretch out the tailbone here.

People should seek medical advice if:

• the pain does not start to improve within a few weeks
• simple home treatments do not relieve the pain
• the pain is severe

They should also contact a healthcare professional immediately if the pain co-occurs with:

• bleeding
• a high temperature
• pain in other areas than just the buttocks
• numbness or weakness in the legs
• difficulty controlling the bowels or bladder
• sharp stabbing or shooting pain

It could be that the cause of the pain is a fracture or an infection and needs further medical intervention.

Learn more about high temperature and fever here.

A number of factors can cause pain in the buttocks, but most are not a cause for concern.

The pain is usually due to an injury or a fall where a person has landed on their buttocks. People may wish to try some simple home treatments to alleviate the pain.

However, if the pain does not ease over time, people should seek medical attention, as it could be a sign of an underlying condition.

Sedentary diseases | Moscow

One of the things that has changed is our daily work. A large number of people who previously worked in active mode switched to remote work. Sedentary work, which was previously the prerogative of office workers and people of certain professions, has become a daily occurrence. People who used to be able to move freely, actively engage in sports activities, have become prisoners of their own homes, sofas and armchairs. The decline in physical activity has become another “pandemic” that brings its consequences.

What is a “sedentary lifestyle”?

First of all, this is a constant continuous presence in one position (lying, sitting) for more than two hours a day, without any movement (during the performance of a monotonous work activity or rest), excluding sleep and everyday physical activity. The scientific name for this phenomenon is hypodynamia (Greek – “reduced activity”). The physiological manifestation of such a phenomenon is already revealed in the title – the reduced activity of our musculoskeletal apparatus and nervous system, which leads to muscle atrophy and an increase in the load on the spine up to 40%. This leads to its deformations, protrusion of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs. Together with a decrease in vascular tone, the blood supply to the brain can worsen, leading to irreversible consequences. An indirect effect is on the heart and blood vessels: the tone of the peripheral blood vessels that lie in the muscle mass and the heart decreases, getting used to the low vascular resistance, reduces the volume of ejected blood and the pressure that maintains blood flow. All this leads to a decrease in blood perfusion to the internal organs.

All of the above physiological changes can lead to specific diseases, many of which not only complicate life, but actually threaten it.

The most common are:

• Hemorrhoids
• Cervicalgia/cervical spine problems – programmer’s neck and thoracic spine, herniated discs
• Varicose veins of the lower extremities
• Metabolic syndrome primarily characterized by overweight and cardiovascular disease
• Diseases of the intestines and organs of the gastrointestinal tract associated with their tone: irritable bowel syndrome, dysphagia, as well as oncological diseases of the intestine.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Insomnia, anxiety disorders

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids – a pathological increase in venous nodes in the rectum is quite easy to detect even in the early stages. Initially, there are heaviness, itching, discomfort in the anus, most pronounced after the act of defecation. With the further development of the disease, a pronounced pain syndrome (increasing with defecation), constipation and the appearance of single drops of scarlet blood in the stool can join. Far advanced cases lead to chronic bleeding (sometimes with dark, clotted blood) during or immediately after defecation, to prolapse of venous nodes – at first easily reduced, and with the continuation of the disease, permanently located outside the anal sphincter, which leads to their pinching, accompanied by thrombosis , necrosis and purulent paraproctitis.

If any of the above symptoms or a combination of them is detected, it is recommended that you first contact a surgeon or a specialized proctologist to confirm this diagnosis, draw up a correct examination and treatment plan for you in accordance with the stage of the disease.

As a prophylaxis, it is possible to use anti-hemorrhoid chairs, pillows and seats, a special set of physical therapy exercises.

Spinal problems

Problems with various parts of the spine and adjacent muscles, one of the most common. A large proportion of the mature population of our country is familiar with them. Recently, young people with a sedentary nature of work have joined them. Doctors even introduced a special term – “computer neck”, as a result of the high load on it during constant work at a computer monitor. Herniated intervertebral discs and protrusions of the vertebrae have become one of the most common reasons for young people to turn to neurologists and neurosurgeons.

The symptoms of the above conditions are known to all. First of all, these are extremely painful attacks that restrict movement in one or more parts of the body, aggravated by any movement, physical activity or prolonged horizontal position.

It is initially recommended to consult a neurologist (preferably skilled in manual therapy) in order to relieve concomitant acute musculo-tonic syndrome. But if your problems have become permanent, then consultations of an orthopedist and a neurosurgeon are already necessary to correct the diseases.

There is only one way to prevent these troubles – more physical activity! And not household (for example, cleaning), because it still takes place in the same position, but the most diverse in type (walking, fitness, swimming, various sports and gymnastics) to activate the work of all muscle groups. In the presence of already formed pathological conditions, it will be necessary to use special complexes of physiotherapy exercises with a professional instructor in order to prevent the progression of the pathology.

Varicose disease

Varicose veins of the lower extremities , as mentioned earlier, occurs due to a decrease in the tone of the muscles of the lower extremities and, accordingly, a decrease in the tone of the muscular wall of the veins. Visually, first of all, it is manifested by a significant expansion, deformation of the pattern of the saphenous veins on the legs, their thickening, and sometimes inflammation up to the appearance of ulcers and bleeding.

At first, these changes lead only to cosmetic defects, but in advanced stages they can carry the risk of thromboembolism, severe bleeding and necrosis of surrounding tissues.

When the first cosmetic signs are found, it is best to perform an ultrasound examination of the superficial and deep veins of the lower extremities and contact a phlebologist (specialist dealing with problems with these veins) with the results. He, in accordance with the manifestations of your problem, will decide which method of treatment to apply: conservative (simply with drugs) or surgical (phlebectomy operations, radiofrequency or laser obliteration of veins, the introduction of sclerosing drugs).

Prevention of varicose veins – movement, movement and more movement, wearing compression stockings, using heparin ointments to prevent vein thrombosis.

Metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a condition characterized by a combination of overweight, obesity, high blood pressure (arterial hypertension), high sugar (glucose), high cholesterol. It is impossible to say exactly what exactly this syndrome begins with – all pathological changes in it are closely intertwined, and the development of one can trigger others. As an example, the lack of sufficient physical activity is expressed by the accumulation of excess body weight – leads to increased formation of glucose and cholesterol in the body and triggers the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, damage to the vascular wall and the appearance of high blood pressure.

Cardiovascular diseases with the above changes develop rapidly, the most terrible of them are obstructive atherosclerotic (cholesterol) lesions of the vessels that feed the heart – chronic coronary syndrome and its acute form of myocardial infarction, atherosclerotic lesions of cerebral vessels, thrombotic obstruction (ischemic stroke ) and bleeding from them (hemorrhagic stroke).

If there is an increase in one of the laboratory parameters (glucose and cholesterol levels), it is necessary to contact a cardiologist/therapist/endocrinologist. If you already feel pain in the heart area or a violation of the rhythm of its work, then you need to contact a cardiologist immediately, before it’s too late!

Prevention is highly non-specific – introducing sufficient physical activity, weight management and timely initiation of medications to prevent the progression of your problems.

Intestinal diseases

Intestinal diseases (functional, inflammatory and oncological) begin with a simple decrease in the tone of the abdominal muscles, leading to a decrease in intestinal motility (or rather, the muscle layer of its wall), stagnation of intestinal contents, and a decrease in the absorption of nutrients in it, excessive growth of the bacterial microflora of the intestine and irreversible changes in its inner wall.

A symptom that you can notice at the very beginning is easily noticeable – stool disorder, pain during defecation, pain in the lower abdomen, heaviness in the lower abdomen, nausea, increased gas formation, bloating, the appearance of strange impurities in the stool, sometimes blood. All these symptoms require an initial visit to a gastroenterologist, studies that will clarify the morphological state of the mucous membrane of your intestines (colonoscopy), studies of feces and intestinal microflora, as well as various enzymes of the digestive system.

The primary prevention of this group of diseases is the competent alignment of your diet, avoidance of foods that cause these problems in you, avoidance of large portions. Excessive consumption of sweets, flour and alcoholic beverages also exacerbates a group of intestinal diseases and requires correction. Self-management with your diet is very difficult, if you can not overcome it, then you may need the help of a dietitian.

Lung diseases

At the heart of development chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with hypodynamia, there is a decrease in the muscle tone of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles, which are involved in the process of inhalation and exhalation. Due to this, there is a decrease in the capacity of the lungs and pulmonary ventilation, as a result, gas exchange worsens and the mobility of the lung tissue is limited.

The first manifestation of this disease is the appearance of shortness of breath and cough during physical exertion. Further, these symptoms may appear at rest. If these problems are identified, first of all, it is recommended to study the respiratory volumes of the lungs (spirometry), contact a general practitioner or pulmonologist.

Prevention of this problem – walks in the fresh air, breathing exercises, maintaining an optimal microclimate at home (humidity and cleanliness of the air).

Insomnia

Insomnia and anxiety disorders are the result of reduced adaptation to the stimulus around us. In today’s world, our brains are accustomed to a large amount of processing information related not only to work and home, but also to the environment around us, helping us to adapt to it. The lack of sufficient “work” for it, aimed at processing side information (weather, smells, wind, the type of people coming to meet you, the route you are moving on) leads to the fact that the brain begins to load itself a little differently. As a result, his mental productive activity is replaced by apathy, irritability, increased anxiety, frequent sensations of tachycardia and breathing problems without shortness of breath, and so on. At present, psychologists will help you cope with this with a mild degree of disorders, with far-reaching processes with somatic (bodily) manifestations, psychotherapists will come to the rescue, but if it comes to hallucinations and psychosis, you will have to contact a psychiatrist.

Prevention of “sedentary diseases”

Prevention is simple, but at the same time complex: be able to switch your intellectual activity, recognize stress in yourself in time and not let your brain be overloaded with routine – both constant work and constant rest are dangerous for it!

Make an appointment with a general practitioner

For more details, consult a qualified specialist at the Semeynaya clinic.

To find out the prices for an appointment with a general practitioner or other questions, follow the link below:

Neuropathy of the pudendal nerve

• KVMT team of specialists. N.I. Pirogova
• Referrals
• Genital neuropathy

Neuropathy of the pudendal nerve

Description

Today, pudendal neuropathies (neuropathies of the pudendal nerve) are quite common in the clinical practice of a urologist. They manifest themselves in the form of a syndrome with a common name – chronic pelvic pain.

Both women and men face this problem throughout their lives. So let’s figure out what pudendal neuropathy is, why it occurs, how to diagnose it and how to treat it.

To begin with, complaints of pain in the sitting position, discomfort, numbness, burning in the pelvis can be explained by the anatomy of the pudendal nerve. This nerve leaves the spine at the level of 1-3 lumbar vertebrae and goes to the small pelvis, passing between the muscles and ligaments. More precisely, between the piriformis muscle and the sacrospinous ligament. Pay attention to figure 1, where the pudendal nerve is labeled as. N.pudendus.

According to the results of scientific research, most often the pudendal nerve is “clamped in pincers” either between two ligaments (sacrospinous and sacrotuberous), or between the piriformis muscle and the sacrospinous ligament. If this compression occurs, swelling forms around the nerve. This area begins to hurt, and the pain increases in the sitting position, in fact, due to the location of the nerve compression zone. After the nerve has passed these “dangerous zones”, it enters a no less dangerous canal – Alcock’s canal, (sciatic spine area), however, based on literature data and our experience, compression in this canal happens much less frequently.

Why is this happening?

There is evidence that risk factors for pudendal nerve compression are:

• Chronic microtraumas (non-systematic sports activities according to the principle: “rarely is better, but wear out”. This includes cycling, gym classes, team sports).
• Hormonal disorders (diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, etc.)
• Systemic connective tissue diseases (collagenoses, etc.)
• Chronic intoxication (alcoholic)
• Genetic predisposition
• Congenital anatomical features of the small pelvis

Diagnosis of pudendal neuropathy

To date, there are clinical criteria to suggest pudendal neuropathy. These are the Nantes criteria. Ask yourself if you have these clinical symptoms.

• Pain in the zone of innervation of the pudendal nerve: from the anus to the clitoris/head of the penis.
• Pain is worse when sitting.
• Pain does not cause nocturnal awakenings.
• Pain is not accompanied by a decrease in tactile sensitivity.

Additional criteria:

• Burning, shooting, stabbing pain, may be accompanied by slight numbness.
• Pain worsens during the day and subsides after sleep.
• Mostly the pain appears on one side.
• Pain may be provoked by defecation.

Having determined the presence of such symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Already at the initial appointment, the doctor will be able to conduct additional special manual tests.

Only a urologist specializing in the treatment of pelvic dysfunction should perform a manual examination (both in the gynecological chair and on the couch). This is due to the need to examine in detail and carefully the areas most susceptible to compression. Insufficiently complete examination is fraught with the loss of valuable diagnostic information, misinterpretation of symptoms and low effectiveness of treatment.

The next step is to conduct electrophysiological studies, for example, the assessment of the bulbocavernosus reflex using the electromyography method.

All possible diagnostic methods are carried out in the Clinic of Expert Urogynecology by highly qualified specialists in the field of pelvic floor pathology. Differential diagnosis is carried out with lesions of other pelvic nerves, as well as with myofascial syndrome. The latter is characterized by painful sensations when pressing on various trigger points in the muscles.

Treatment of neuropathies of the pudendal nerve

Therapeutic and diagnostic blocks

Conservative treatment is aimed primarily at removing the tension (decompression) of the nerve in the “critical zones” and restoring normal trophism.

The first stage is recommended to carry out therapeutic and diagnostic blockades of these most problematic areas, which we talked about at the very beginning (zones of ligaments and muscles).

The most widespread blockade with a local anesthetic (lidocaine, bupivacaine) and glucocorticoid (betamethasone).

Transvertebral magnetic neuromodulation

Within the walls of our center, a unique method of treating neuropathic pain has been developed and adapted. It is highly effective in true pudendal neropathy and is used in parallel with blockades. A deep impact of a directed magnetic impulse with a certain frequency on the exit zone of the pudendal nerve from the spine (level S2-S3) allows you to “reset” the innervation and break the vicious circle of pain. The course of treatment with magnetic neuromodulation is from 10 to 15 sessions, depending on the severity of the disease.

Botulinum therapy.

It is indicated in the presence of muscular-tonic syndrome, when the muscle needs to be relaxed. Botulinum toxin type A is successfully used specifically to influence this pathological component.

With proper use (according to indications and with good navigation through ultrasound), the risks of complications are minimal.

Transcranial magnetic neuromodulation

The latest method of influencing the structures of the brain. In Russia, we are leaders in the use of neuromodulation of the central and peripheral nervous system for the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunctions and chronic pelvic pain syndrome.

This technique is aimed at eliminating central sensitization – a condition that develops during a long course of the disease, when the patient did not receive adequate treatment in time.

Remember, even with a prolonged course of the disease, there is a way out!

Manual therapy.

The main goal of treatment by a neurologist-osteopath is the elimination of biomechanical disorders and pathological changes in soft tissue structures.

When a person has a muscle pain, he tries to reflexively “save” it by changing position, sitting or walking. This leads to the fact that these structures, on which the additional “volume of work” falls, begin to experience additional stress and get sick. And this only reinforces the vicious cycle of disease development. With the help of manual techniques, it is possible to return to its place that which has undergone displacement and has been involved in the pathological process.