The purpose of the following is to provide the reader with information regarding treatment of minor medical issues. The purpose is not to provide medical advice and is not meant to circumvent the need for diagnosis and treatment of medical problems by trained medical professionals. Many more serious medical problems may only be capable of diagnosis by these trained professionals.

Buttocks

Sciatica (pain, tingling, or numbness of the nerve roots in the lower back)

Cause: Sciatica is often caused by a disc injury. When a disc slips out place, it puts pressure on the sciatic nerve and causes pain. Disc injuries are often the result of a heavy strain or repeated stress on the lower back. A sudden twisting movement can also result in an injury. Athletes who can easily have bad posture, such as a baseball catcher or football lineman, are especially susceptible to a disc injury.

Prevention: Maintain good posture to reduce stress on your back. Always use correct lifting techniques. Lift with your knees and push yourself up with your legs; never lift with your back.

Treatment: This diagnosis and recommended treatment must be under the supervision of a physician. Temporarily rest your back and gradually build up to your usual activity level, as recommended by your doctor. Take anti-inflammatory medicine such as Advil, Aleve, or Motrin to reduce inflammation. Make sure to follow the directions on the bottle and check with your doctor before taking any new medications. If the pain does not cease or if you become incontinent (you are passing your water without control), surgery or physical therapy may be needed so contact your doctor immediately.

Imaging: MRI may be done to evaluate the cause of the nerve irritation.

Muscle Strain

Cause: Muscle strain is an overuse injury that is caused when the tendon is consistently placed under stress and small tears form. Sports that most commonly lead to muscle strain include running, tennis, and basketball.

Prevention: Develop a daily stretching routine. Wear a knee brace when participating in sports that require sharp movements, such as tennis or basketball. If you have taken time off from sporting activities due to injury or other causes, gradually ease back into your routine.

Treatment: Rest the joint for at least one to two months. During this time, make sure to not put any pressure on the knee. Ice the area regularly while you are resting it. Take anti-inflammatory medicine such as Advil, Aleve, or Motrin to reduce inflammation. Make sure to follow the directions on the bottle and check with your doctor before taking any new medications. If the pain does not cease, cortisone injections and/or surgery may be needed so contact your doctor immediately.

Imaging: MRI may be done to evaluate for any soft tissue injury.