Definition
Pain above the buttocks is pain that occurs above or in the region of the iliac crest. Pain in the lower lumbar spine (lumbar spine) can also be perceived as pain above the buttocks, so buttock pain is often associated with back or lower back pain. Inflammatory diseases can also cause pain in the gluteal region; fistulas or eczema in the gluteal fold, for example, are frequent causes of pain above the buttocks.
Causes
The causes of pain about the buttocks can be different. In addition to sore muscles and acute strain, which can lead to corresponding symptoms, chronic overstrain and functional disorders are often the cause of the pain. In everyday life, we are often in a sitting or bent position, whereby the structures of the buttock region are loaded on one side and are constantly stretched.
The blood circulation situation thus deteriorates and adhesions and tensions occur, which can be the cause of the pain. So-called trigger points, or pain points, are formed in the muscles. Even in the case of functional disorders of the spinal column joints, pain can radiate to the upper buttock region.
The frequently occurring irritation of the sciatic nerve, on the other hand, tends to cause pain in the thigh region, or directly in the buttock region, rather than pain above the buttocks, and can thus usually be ruled out. Coccyx fistulas occur in chronic inflammation of the gluteal fold. Frequently, ingrown hair, hair root inflammation or malformations of the coccyx are the cause of coccyx fistulas.
Deep ducts are formed from which pus or blood can escape. In addition to often severe pain, e.g. when lying down or sitting, the fistula can also manifest itself through severe itching. Men are affected more often than women.
Treatment can be conservative or surgical. Since new fistulas often form after some time during surgical removal, laser treatment should also be considered. Personal hygiene, hair in the region and also too tight, airtight underwear play a role in the development of coccyx fistulas.
Eczema can occur with chronic inflammation of the buttock region, especially in the anal fold. Reddened, weeping and sore skin areas occur, which can sometimes be very painful or itchy. Risk factors for the development of eczema in the gluteal region are prolonged sitting, haemorrhages and infectious diseases and injuries to the gluteal fold caused by bacteria or fungi. Personal hygiene and under-weakness also play a role. Too tight, synthetic underwear can promote the development of eczema.