[27F] Experiencing sharp, burning hip and upper buttocks pain

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible conditions include:

• Sciatica: This condition occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg, becomes irritated. This can cause pain, inflammation, and often some numbness in the affected leg. The pain can be severe and is often exacerbated by prolonged sitting or standing.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy to improve your posture and strengthen the muscles that support your back. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may also be recommended.

• Hip Bursitis: This condition occurs when the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion your hip joints, become inflamed. This can cause pain on the outside of your hip and upper thigh, and the pain often gets worse with prolonged walking or climbing stairs.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary.

• Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: This condition occurs when the sacroiliac joints, which connect your spine to your hip bones, become inflamed. This can cause pain in your lower back and buttocks, and the pain often gets worse with prolonged standing or climbing stairs.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, pain relievers, and possibly injections or surgery.

Please note that these are only possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. You should consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

While waiting for your appointment with a healthcare professional, you can try the following to help alleviate your symptoms:

1. Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate your pain.
2. Heat or Cold Therapy: Apply a hot or cold pack to the painful area for 15-20 minutes at a time.
3. Over-the-counter Pain Relievers: Non-prescription medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Gentle Exercises: Light stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce pain. However, you should only do this under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain or swelling in your hip or buttock
• Sudden, intense pain in your hip or buttock
• Difficulty moving or walking due to pain
• Fever, chills, or unexplained weight loss along with hip pain

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may need different management. Always consult with a healthcare professional for accurate information.