Welcome back to the Muscle and Joint Podcast! Today, we’re talking about a condition that often goes unnoticed but can cause a significant amount of discomfort—Deep Gluteal Syndrome, or DGS for short. If you’ve ever felt a persistent pain deep in your buttock, had trouble sitting for long periods, or experienced a tingling sensation running down your leg, you may be dealing with DGS. What makes this condition tricky is that its symptoms can mimic other issues like sciatica or lower back pain, making it difficult to pinpoint. However, the good news is that Deep Gluteal Syndrome is treatable, and today, we’re going to break down what it is, why it happens, and, most importantly, how to relieve the pain and get back to feeling your best.

Deep Gluteal Syndrome occurs when the sciatic nerve—one of the largest nerves in the body—becomes compressed or irritated by nearby structures within the deep gluteal space. This region is made up of muscles, ligaments, and bones that work together to support movement and stability. Sometimes, tight muscles like the piriformis, fibrous bands, or even abnormal blood vessels can put excessive pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to pain and discomfort. For years, this condition was mainly referred to as piriformis syndrome, but recent research has shown that nerve entrapment can be caused by various structures in the gluteal region, making Deep Gluteal Syndrome a broader and more accurate term.

The symptoms of DGS can vary from person to person, but common signs include a persistent, deep ache in the buttock, especially when sitting or walking for long periods. Many people describe a burning or tingling sensation radiating down the leg, similar to sciatica. Others report cramping or tightness in the gluteal area after physical activity, along with weakness or instability in the lower limb. These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, making it difficult to go about daily activities. Because DGS shares similarities with other conditions, a proper diagnosis is crucial to ensure the right treatment approach.

Diagnosing Deep Gluteal Syndrome involves a thorough history, physical examination, and sometimes imaging tests to rule out other possible causes, such as lumbar spine issues or pelvic conditions. A healthcare provider may use movement tests like the Piriformis Stretch Test, which checks for pain reproduction in the gluteal area, or the Active Piriformis Test, which assesses hip rotation for signs of sciatic nerve irritation. In some cases, an MRI or high-resolution imaging may be recommended to identify abnormalities in the deep gluteal space. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment can begin, and the best part is that most cases of DGS can be managed without surgery.

See the full post here: https://muscleandjoint.ca/Mississauga/understanding-deep-gluteal-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-solutions/

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