What causes soreness and swelling in the buttocks, and how to treat it?

Buttock soreness and swelling may be caused by physiological factors, or could result from pathological conditions such as gluteal fasciitis or lumbar disc herniation. Commonly used treatments include avoiding prolonged sitting, massage, medications, and others.

I. Physiological Factors

Prolonged sitting or standing, and long-term tension in the buttock muscles, can lead to muscle fatigue, resulting in soreness and swelling in the buttocks. It is advisable to avoid prolonged sitting whenever possible, and to stand up and move around every twenty minutes or half hour.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Muscle Strain

Chronic overuse may cause strain or injury to the buttock muscles, leading to excessive muscle tension and accumulation of lactic acid, which causes soreness and pain. Massaging the sore buttock area and surrounding muscles can help relieve muscle tension and promote local blood circulation, thereby alleviating discomfort.

2. Gluteal Fasciitis

Gluteal fascia may undergo pathological changes due to overuse or exposure to cold, causing various discomforts in the muscular fascia system, commonly including pain, muscle tightness, weakness, spasms, numbness of the skin, and soreness. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen capsules or aspirin tablets may be used under medical guidance for treatment.

In addition, sciatica may also cause soreness and swelling in the buttocks. Treatment under medical supervision may include medications such as celecoxib tablets or vitamin B12 tablets. Surgical options, such as minimally invasive nucleotomy or spinal decompression and fusion surgery, may also be considered.