It is common to feel buttock pain when transitioning from sitting to standing. This discomfort, ranging from a dull ache to a sharp pain, can stem from various issues within the gluteal region. Understanding these potential causes can help address the discomfort effectively.
Muscles, Tendons, and Joints
Buttock pain when standing can frequently stem from issues within the muscles, tendons, and joints of the hip and gluteal area. One condition is piriformis syndrome, where the piriformis muscle, deep in the buttock, spasms or tightens, pressing on the sciatic nerve. This causes shooting, burning, or aching pain deep in the buttock and hip, sometimes extending down the leg. Symptoms often worsen when standing or after prolonged sitting; overuse can contribute.
Gluteal tendinopathy is another common cause, involving the tendons connecting the gluteal muscles to the hip bone. It presents as pain and tenderness along the side of the hip, sometimes radiating down the outer leg, feeling like a constant ache or bruise. Activities that compress the gluteal tendons, such as standing with a “hitched hip” or prolonged sitting, can aggravate the pain, often worsening when standing or getting out of bed.
Trochanteric bursitis involves inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) on the outside of the hip. These bursae cushion the hip joint. When inflamed, it causes pain on the outside of the hip or upper thigh, worsening when standing from a chair or walking upstairs. General gluteal muscle strains from overuse, injury, or improper posture can also cause buttock pain.
Nerves and Spine
Pain originating from nerve compression or spinal issues can significantly contribute to buttock discomfort when standing. Sciatica is a prominent example, characterized by pain radiating from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg, following the sciatic nerve. This nerve pain is often burning or sharp, accompanied by tingling or numbness. While sitting can cause sciatic pain, for some, it specifically worsens when standing, especially if the issue stems from the lower lumbar vertebrae, sacroiliac joint, a herniated disc, or narrowed spinal canal.
A herniated disc in the lower back can compress sciatic nerve roots, leading to radiating buttock and leg pain. Spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal, also puts pressure on spinal nerves, causing similar symptoms exacerbated by prolonged standing.
Pudendal neuralgia is another nerve entrapment condition causing buttock pain. It involves the pudendal nerve, which supplies sensation to the perineum, genitals, and rectal area. While often worsened by sitting, pain can also be present when standing, though typically relieved by standing or lying down. The neuropathic pain is often burning, tingling, or numbness, extending into the buttocks.
When to Seek Professional Help
While many instances of buttock pain when standing can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant professional medical evaluation. Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with self-care or worsens over time should prompt a visit. Pain accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs is a significant indicator of nerve involvement or compression.
Loss of bladder or bowel control with buttock pain is a serious symptom requiring immediate medical attention. Pain developing suddenly after an injury, like a fall, should also be assessed to rule out fractures or other damage. If pain significantly interferes with daily activities, sleep, or quality of life, a medical consultation can help identify the cause and guide treatment. Fever accompanying buttock pain can also indicate a serious issue, such as an infection.
At-Home Strategies and Prevention
Managing buttock pain when standing involves immediate relief and preventive strategies. For immediate relief, apply ice or heat to the affected area. Ice therapy reduces swelling and numbs pain, especially for inflammation or recent injuries. Heat therapy increases blood flow and relaxes tight muscles. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can also reduce pain and inflammation.
Gentle stretching exercises targeting the gluteal muscles, piriformis, and hamstrings can alleviate tightness and improve flexibility. Examples include piriformis, figure-four, and knee-to-chest stretches. Modifying daily activities is also important; avoid prolonged sitting, take frequent breaks to stand and move, and use a cushion when sitting to reduce buttock pressure.
Preventing recurrence involves maintaining good posture, especially when sitting or standing, to minimize pressure on gluteal muscles and spine. Regular physical activity, including glute and core strengthening, can improve stability and prevent muscle imbalances. Ergonomic adjustments at work or home, such as an ergonomic chair with lumbar support, can further support proper posture and reduce strain. When lifting, bend at the knees and keep the back straight to prevent injury.