Myofascial Pain in Buttock Muscles
Myofascial pain or trigger points in the Gluteus medius and Piriformis muscles can cause pain in the buttock area. A trigger point is a tiny localized knot in the muscle.
Symptoms of Myofascial Pain
- Pain and tension in the buttock or very lower back area.
- Pain may radiate into the back of the thigh, particularly when the trigger points are pressed (palpated).
- Hip internal rotation may be reduced.
Treatment of Myofascial Pain
What can the athlete do?
- Begin a comprehensive stretching routine for the muscles of the lower back, hip and groin.
- See a sports injury specialist or physiotherapist.
What can a sports injury specialist do?
- Identify the cause of the myofascial pain and trigger points. They are a secondary condition which will have been caused by another problem such as low back conditions or a muscle imbalance or instability or the pelvis.
- Apply deep tissue massage techniques combined with proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching.
- Dry needling or acupuncture may help release tension and lengthen muscles.
