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Are Soreness And Pain In The Glutes Indicative Of Sciatica?
Question: I'm 58, very fit (stretch/mat work 45 min. every day, swim, lift weights) My left glute was sore yesterday, but felt better after my exercise routine. Then starting feeling worse through the afternoon. This morning it is worse; more sore; hurts to sit. It's not that bad; I probably shouldn't bother you with it, but I don't know what caused it, not sure I have had something this before, and and don't know how best to treat it. Last week, I missed my workouts a couple days and was perhaps sitting at my desk for longer than usual. That's about all I can think of that would have caused it. So far I have not taken any advil. Does this sound like sciatica? Should I not do my usual stretching? Any exercises to avoid? swimming? biking? squats? Any other advice? Thank you!
Brief Answer:
Rest is needed, medication can try cold compress today as well
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Though sitting for longer than normal may be associated with discomfort, it should not cause persistent or intense pain.
It can sometimes be difficult to determine the exact cause for soft tissue injury but the principles of treatment involve--P.R.I.C.E MM
P- protect the area from further injury
R- rest- this means reducing any activity that would cause or worsen the pain.
In your case, the biking (since may increase pressure on the area) and squats would definitely need to be stopped for a few days
The stretching should be okay but may reduce slightly. Swimming should be okay but if you notice any increase of pain with swimming, then this would also need to be temporarily stopped
I- initially after an injury ice compress is used, then warmth can be used after though this regimen can vary. Some persons use warmth first.
You can try the ice compress at least 2 to 3 times today for 10 to 15 mins
C- compression bandage- would not apply here
E- elevation- this helps with swelling
M- medication-- the ibuprofen should definitely be started. Can also try topical treatment such as Voltaren gel or capsaicin
M-modalities such as physiotherapy- this is useful for long-term pain
Hope I have answered your query.
Take care
Regards,
Dr Michelle Gibson James, General & Family Physician
Rest is needed, medication can try cold compress today as well
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Though sitting for longer than normal may be associated with discomfort, it should not cause persistent or intense pain.
It can sometimes be difficult to determine the exact cause for soft tissue injury but the principles of treatment involve--P.R.I.C.E MM
P- protect the area from further injury
R- rest- this means reducing any activity that would cause or worsen the pain.
In your case, the biking (since may increase pressure on the area) and squats would definitely need to be stopped for a few days
The stretching should be okay but may reduce slightly. Swimming should be okay but if you notice any increase of pain with swimming, then this would also need to be temporarily stopped
I- initially after an injury ice compress is used, then warmth can be used after though this regimen can vary. Some persons use warmth first.
You can try the ice compress at least 2 to 3 times today for 10 to 15 mins
C- compression bandage- would not apply here
E- elevation- this helps with swelling
M- medication-- the ibuprofen should definitely be started. Can also try topical treatment such as Voltaren gel or capsaicin
M-modalities such as physiotherapy- this is useful for long-term pain
Hope I have answered your query.
Take care
Regards,
Dr Michelle Gibson James, General & Family Physician
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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