Symptom guide
Hip and Buttock Pain
Deep aching or sharp pain in the buttock, hip, or upper thigh that may radiate down the leg. Can be difficult to distinguish from hip joint problems without evaluation.
When to seek emergency care
- Loss of bowel or bladder control (seek emergency care)
- Pain following significant trauma
- Night pain that consistently wakes you from sleep
Conditions commonly associated with this symptom
Patients describing hip and buttock pain are commonly evaluated for these conditions. Only a clinician can determine which applies to you.
Which specialist typically evaluates this
The right provider depends on your specific situation. These are the specialties that commonly evaluate hip and buttock pain.
Frequently asked questions
- What spine conditions cause hip and buttock pain?
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction, piriformis syndrome, sciatica, and lumbar radiculopathy are among the spinal and pelvic conditions commonly associated with pain in the hip and buttock area.
- How do I know if my hip pain is from the spine or the hip joint?
- Pain that radiates below the knee or is associated with back symptoms more commonly suggests a spinal origin; pain isolated to groin flexion more often suggests the hip joint. Evaluation by a spine specialist can clarify the source.
- Which specialist evaluates hip and buttock pain from the spine?
- PM&R physicians commonly evaluate this overlap region. Pain management specialists and orthopedic spine surgeons may also be involved depending on the suspected cause.
Find a Physiatrist (PM&R) near you
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