About Liv

Why Does My Buttock Feel Numb? Common Causes and What to Do

Last Updated on November 18, 2025 by Ugurkan Demir

Why Does My Buttock Feel Numb? Common Causes and What to Do
Why Does My Buttock Feel Numb? Common Causes and What to Do 2

Ever felt a tingling sensation or numbness in your buttocks? At Liv Hospital, we know numbness in one buttock is worrying. It can happen for many reasons, like nerve pressure from sitting too long. Or it could be due to sciatica and piriformis syndrome.

Our team at Liv Hospital is here to help. We focus on treating numbness in bum or tingling in buttocks for international patients. We work with you to find out why you’re feeling this way. Then, we create a treatment plan just for you.

Key Takeaways

  • Numbness in one buttock can be caused by nerve compression or underlying medical conditions.
  • Sciatica and piriformis syndrome are common underlying conditions that can cause numbness.
  • Liv Hospital provides comprehensive care for international patients.
  • A personalized treatment plan is developed based on the underlying cause of symptoms.
  • Our team of experts is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused care.

Understanding Buttock Numbness

numbness in one buttock

Feeling numb in your buttocks can be worrying. It’s important to know why it happens to find the right solution. Numbness in the buttocks can be short-term or long-lasting, each with its own health impact.

What Causes the Sensation of Numbness

Numbness happens when nerves are pressed or don’t work right. Prolonged sitting often causes temporary numbness. This is because sitting for too long can block blood flow and nerve signals, making you feel numb.

Long-term numbness might mean there’s a serious nerve problem. It’s a sign that needs medical attention.

Difference Between Temporary and Chronic Numbness

Temporary numbness goes away when you move or stand up. But chronic numbness lasts and can signal a serious issue. It might be linked to sciatica, piriformis syndrome, or other nerve problems.

Knowing if your numbness is temporary or chronic is key. It helps you get the right medical help.

Anatomy of the Buttock Region

numbness in one buttock

To understand why buttock numbness happens, we need to look at the area’s anatomy. The buttock, or gluteal region, has many layers. These include muscles, fat, and nerves.

Key Nerves in the Buttock Area

The buttock has several important nerves. These nerves help with feeling and movement. The sciatic nerve is the biggest and most important.

The sciatic nerve starts in the lower back and goes down to the legs. It controls the muscles in the lower legs and helps us feel things.

The Sciatic Nerve Pathway

The sciatic nerve’s path starts in the lower back and upper sacral spine. Here, nerve roots come together to form the sciatic nerve. It then goes through the greater sciatic foramen, a big hole in the pelvis.

After that, it goes under the piriformis muscle and down the back of the thigh.

How These Nerves Can Become Compressed

Nerve compression happens when a nerve gets squeezed. This can be from other tissues or structures. In the buttock, the sciatic nerve can get compressed.

This can be due to tight muscles, unusual anatomy, or outside pressure. For example, piriformis syndrome happens when the piriformis muscle presses on the sciatic nerve. This causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the buttocks and leg.

I Feel Numbness in One Buttock: Common Symptoms

Feeling numb in just one buttock can be confusing. It might mean there’s a problem that needs to be looked at. We’ll show you the common signs of numbness in one buttock. We’ll also explain how to tell if it’s numbness or tingling.

Differentiating Between Numbness and Tingling

Numbness and tingling are two different feelings that can happen in the buttocks. Numbness means you can’t feel anything, while tingling feels like pins and needles. Both can happen when nerves get compressed or irritated.

Numbness is when you lose all feeling in an area. Tingling is a buzzing or prickling feeling. Knowing the difference can help figure out what’s causing it.

Numb Left Bum Cheek vs. Right Side Numbness

Where the numbness is can give clues about what’s causing it. Whether it’s on the left or right side, looking at other symptoms is key to finding the cause.

Studies show that the side of numbness can point to which nerves are affected. For example, the sciatic nerve can cause numbness on one side if it’s compressed.

Characteristics Numb Left Bum Cheek Right Side Numbness
Nerve Involved Left Sciatic Nerve or branches Right Sciatic Nerve or branches
Possible Causes Left-sided disc herniation, Piriformis Syndrome Right-sided disc herniation, Piriformis Syndrome
Associated Symptoms Pain or tingling down the left leg Pain or tingling down the right leg

Associated Symptoms to Watch For

Numbness in one buttock often comes with other symptoms. These can help figure out what’s causing it. Look out for:

  • Pain or discomfort in the lower back or legs
  • Tingling or pins-and-needles sensations
  • Weakness in the affected leg
  • Difficulty controlling bowel or bladder functions (in severe cases)

“Understanding the associated symptoms is key to finding the cause of numbness in one buttock and getting the right treatment.”

Medical Expert

Spotting these symptoms early can lead to the right diagnosis and treatment. If you notice any of these, it’s best to see a doctor.

Prolonged Sitting and Buttock Numbness

Sitting for long periods is common in many jobs and lifestyles. It can lead to health issues, including numbness in the buttocks.

Numbness Causes When Sitting

Sitting for a long time puts pressure on nerves in the buttock area. This pressure can compress nerves, causing numbness or tingling. The prolonged pressure on these nerves can disrupt normal nerve function, leading to discomfort or numbness.

Nerve Compression Effects

Sitting can compress nerves in the buttock area by applying direct pressure. The sciatic nerve, a major nerve, runs from the lower back to the legs through the buttocks. Compression of this nerve due to sitting can cause numbness or pain in the buttocks and legs.

Poor posture or sitting on hard surfaces without cushioning can worsen nerve compression. It’s important to understand how sitting affects nerve compression to prevent its effects.

Occupations at Higher Risk

Certain jobs and activities increase the risk of buttock numbness due to prolonged sitting. These include:

  • Office workers who spend most of their day sitting
  • Drivers who are seated for long periods
  • Individuals with jobs that require sitting for extended periods without breaks
Occupation Risk Factors Preventive Measures
Office Workers Prolonged sitting, poor posture Regular breaks, ergonomic seating
Long-distance Drivers Continuous sitting, vibration from vehicles Frequent stops, supportive seating
Gamers Extended sitting, intense focus Regular breaks, stretching exercises

Understanding the risks of prolonged sitting and taking preventive measures can help reduce the chance of buttock numbness.

Sciatica: A Leading Cause of Buttock Numbness

Sciatica affects millions worldwide, causing numbness and pain in the buttocks. It happens when the sciatic nerve gets compressed or irritated. This can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the buttocks and legs.

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a symptom of a deeper medical issue, not a diagnosis itself. It brings pain, numbness, and tingling to the lower back, buttocks, and legs. The severity can vary from mild to severe and can last a short time or be ongoing.

The sciatic nerve is key for controlling muscles and feeling in the lower legs. When irritated or compressed, it can cause sciatica symptoms.

How Sciatica Causes Numbness in the Buttocks

Numbness in the buttocks from sciatica comes from nerve compression. This can happen anywhere along the nerve’s path, from the lower back to the legs. Compression disrupts nerve signals, causing numbness and tingling.

The numbness’s severity depends on how much the nerve is compressed and the person’s health. Sometimes, pain goes along with numbness, and other times, numbness is the main symptom.

Common Triggers for Sciatic Pain

Several things can trigger or make sciatic pain worse. These include:

  • Herniated discs
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Piriformis syndrome
  • Spinal stenosis

Knowing what triggers sciatica is key to managing it. By tackling the root cause, people can find relief from numbness and pain.

Piriformis Syndrome and Buttock Numbness

Numbness and tingling in the buttock area can be symptoms of piriformis syndrome. This condition involves the compression of the sciatic nerve. We will explore this condition in detail, discussing its causes, symptoms, and the impact it has on the buttock area.

Understanding Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle, located in the buttock region, compresses or irritates the sciatic nerve. This muscle is key for hip rotation and stabilizing the hip joint. When it compresses the sciatic nerve, it can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the buttocks and down the leg.

The piriformis muscle runs from the base of the spine to the top of the thigh bone. The sciatic nerve runs beneath it or sometimes through it. When the piriformis muscle is tight or inflamed, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve. This leads to symptoms like numbness and pain.

Why It Causes Tingling Sensation on Buttocks

The tingling sensation on the buttocks is due to the compression of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle. This compression disrupts the nerve’s normal functioning. It leads to abnormal sensations such as tingling or numbness. The severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the degree of compression.

Activities that exacerbate the condition, such as prolonged sitting or climbing stairs, can worsen the symptoms. Understanding the triggers is key to managing the condition effectively.

Activity Effect on Piriformis Syndrome
Prolonged Sitting Increases pressure on the sciatic nerve, worsening symptoms.
Climbing Stairs Can exacerbate the condition by increasing muscle activity.
Exercise Can help alleviate symptoms if done correctly, but may worsen if it involves high-impact activities.

Tingling in Buttocks When Sitting Down

Sitting down can often trigger or worsen the tingling sensation in the buttocks for individuals with piriformis syndrome. This is because sitting can cause the piriformis muscle to compress the sciatic nerve further. For those suffering from this condition, it’s essential to take regular breaks when sitting for long periods.

Other Medical Conditions That Cause Buttock Numbness

Numbness in the buttocks is not just a minor issue; it can be a sign of serious medical conditions. Several health issues can cause this sensation. It’s important to understand these conditions for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Herniated Discs

A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner gel of the disc leaks out. This can irritate nearby nerves, leading to numbness in the buttocks. Symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the herniation.

“The most common symptoms of a herniated disc include pain, numbness, and weakness in the back, legs, or buttocks,” according to medical experts. Treatment options range from conservative management with physical therapy to surgical intervention in severe cases.

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal. This can put pressure on the nerves. This pressure can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the buttocks and legs. The severity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals.

As noted by healthcare professionals, “Spinal stenosis can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, causing discomfort and limiting mobility.” Treatment may include physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery to relieve the compression on the nerves.

Cauda Equina Syndrome

Cauda equina syndrome is a serious medical condition that occurs when the nerves in the lower spine are compressed. This compression can cause numbness in the buttocks, as well as other symptoms like bladder and bowel dysfunction. Immediate medical attention is required to prevent long-term damage.

“Cauda equina syndrome is a medical emergency,” as emphasized by medical authorities. Prompt treatment, often surgical, is necessary to decompress the nerves and restore function.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy refers to the damage of peripheral nerves. This can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in various parts of the body, including the buttocks. The causes of peripheral neuropathy are diverse, including diabetes, infections, and trauma.

According to medical research, “Managing the underlying cause is key to treating peripheral neuropathy.” Treatment plans often involve addressing the root cause, managing symptoms, and preventing further nerve damage.

Understanding these medical conditions is essential for individuals experiencing numbness in the buttocks. Proper diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.

Diagnosing the Cause of Numb Buttocks

Figuring out why your buttocks feel numb involves a few steps. First, your doctor will look at your medical history. Then, they’ll do a physical check and might run some tests.

What to Tell Your Doctor

When you see your doctor, be ready to talk about your symptoms. Tell them when you first noticed the numbness and how long it’s lasted. Also, mention anything that makes it better or worse.

Talk about your daily life, like your job and hobbies. This info can help your doctor understand what’s going on.

Key points to discuss with your doctor:

  • The onset and duration of numbness
  • Any recent injuries or trauma
  • Your occupation and daily activities
  • Any previous medical conditions or surgeries

Physical Examination Techniques

A physical check is key to figuring out why your buttocks are numb. Your doctor will use different methods to check your nerves and look for any problems.

Common physical examination techniques include:

  • Checking reflexes and muscle strength
  • Assessing sensation and pain perception
  • Evaluating range of motion and flexibility

Common Diagnostic Tests

Your doctor might also order tests to find out what’s causing your numbness. These tests help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.

Common diagnostic tests for numb buttocks include:

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to see soft tissues and nerves
  • Electromyography (EMG) to check muscle and nerve function
  • Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) to see how nerves send signals

By looking at your medical history, physical check, and test results, your doctor can find out what’s wrong. They’ll then suggest the best treatment for your numb buttocks.

Treatment Options for Buttock Numbness

Buttock numbness can be treated in many ways. This includes simple home remedies and more complex medical treatments. The right treatment depends on the cause, how bad it is, and your health.

Home Remedies and Self-Care

For mild numbness, home remedies and self-care can help. Here are some:

  • Regular stretching to improve flexibility and reduce nerve pressure
  • Keeping a healthy weight to ease pressure on the buttocks
  • Breaking up sitting or standing with regular movement
  • Using ergonomic furniture to improve posture and reduce strain
  • Applying heat or cold packs to the area to ease pain

Good posture and regular exercise are also key. They strengthen muscles and improve blood flow.

Medical Treatments and Medications

When home remedies don’t work, medical treatments may be needed. These include:

  1. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain and inflammation
  2. Prescription medications for muscle relaxation or nerve pain in severe cases
  3. Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and relieve nerve pressure

In some cases, surgery may be needed for issues like herniated discs or spinal stenosis.

Physical Therapy Approaches

Physical therapy is key for treating buttock numbness, often due to muscle or nerve issues. A physical therapist can create a custom exercise plan. This includes:

  • Stretching to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension
  • Strengthening exercises to support the muscles around the affected area
  • Manual therapy like massage or mobilization to improve circulation and reduce pain
  • Postural education to improve posture and reduce strain on the buttock area

Combining these treatments can help manage buttock numbness and improve life quality.

Preventing Numbness in the Buttocks

To avoid numb buttocks, making smart choices in daily life is key. This includes using ergonomic tools, exercising regularly, and living a healthy lifestyle. These steps help prevent numbness in the buttocks.

Ergonomic Considerations for Daily Activities

Good posture is vital to avoid numb buttocks. Adjust your workspace to support good posture to lessen nerve pressure. This means setting your chair, monitor, and keyboard at the right heights.

It’s important to stand up and stretch often when sitting. This reduces nerve pressure and boosts blood flow. Choose an ergonomic chair with lumbar support to keep your back’s natural curve.

Exercise and Stretching Routines

Exercise and stretching are great for preventing numbness. Doing exercises that strengthen your core and glutes, like squats and lunges, helps your lower back. This reduces nerve pressure.

Try simple stretches like the piriformis stretch. Sit on the floor with one leg crossed over the other. Gently pull the knee toward your opposite shoulder.

Lifestyle Modifications to Protect Nerve Health

Healthy lifestyle choices are also important. Keeping a healthy weight helps reduce nerve pressure and improves blood flow.

Don’t smoke and limit alcohol to protect your nerves. Eat a balanced diet full of vitamins and minerals, like vitamin B12, to support nerve health.

By following these tips, you can lower your risk of numbness in the buttocks.

When to See a Doctor for Buttock Numbness

It’s important to know when to see a doctor for buttock numbness. Sometimes, numbness is just a minor issue. But if it keeps happening or gets worse, you need to get help.

Warning Signs That Require Immediate Attention

Some symptoms with buttock numbness mean you should see a doctor right away. These include:

  • Severe pain that gets worse over time
  • Difficulty controlling the bladder or bowels
  • Numbness or tingling that spreads to other parts of the body
  • Weakness or paralysis in the legs

Seeing a doctor quickly is key if you have these symptoms. Waiting too long can cause permanent harm.

Chronic vs. Acute Symptoms

Knowing the difference between chronic and acute symptoms is important. It helps you understand how urgent your situation is.

Characteristics Acute Symptoms Chronic Symptoms
Onset Sudden Gradual or persistent
Duration Short-term Long-term or recurring
Causes Often due to injury or sudden compression May result from ongoing conditions like diabetes or nerve damage

Acute symptoms need quick attention. Chronic symptoms might need ongoing care.

“The key to managing buttock numbness is early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Ignoring the symptoms can lead to complications.”

Medical Expert

What to Expect During Your Medical Visit

At your doctor’s visit for buttock numbness, expect a detailed check-up. This includes:

  1. A detailed medical history to identify possible causes
  2. A physical examination to check nerve function and muscle strength
  3. Diagnostic tests like MRI or EMG to confirm the diagnosis

Being ready for your visit by noting your symptoms and medical history helps your doctor. They can then give you a better diagnosis and treatment plan.

Conclusion

Numbness in the buttock area is a common issue. It can be caused by many things, like sitting too long, sciatica, or other health problems. We’ve talked about what causes it, how to tell if you have it, and how to treat it.

Knowing what causes numbness in the buttocks is important. It helps you manage symptoms and live better. By using good posture, exercising, and changing your lifestyle, you can lower your risk of numbness. If numbness doesn’t go away or is very bad, see a doctor to find out why and get help.

Preventing numbness and getting medical help early are key. They help you avoid long-term problems. We suggest taking care of your health and getting medical help when you need it.

 

FAQ

Why does my buttock feel numb?

Numbness in the buttock can happen for many reasons. It might be due to nerve pressure, health issues, or how you live. At Liv Hospital, we’ll find out why you’re feeling numb. Then, we’ll create a plan just for you.

What causes numbness in one buttock?

Numbness in one buttock often comes from nerve pressure. This can happen from sitting too long, piriformis syndrome, or other health problems.

Why does my bum go numb when sitting?

Sitting for a long time can make your buttock numb. This is because nerves get pressed. It’s common for people who sit a lot for work or hobbies.

What is the difference between numbness and tingling?

Numbness means you can’t feel anything in a certain area. Tingling feels like pins and needles. Both can happen from nerve pressure or health issues.

What are the symptoms associated with numbness in one buttock?

Feeling numb in one buttock might also mean tingling, pain, or weakness. These symptoms can happen in the same area.

How is numbness in the buttock area diagnosed?

Finding out why your buttock is numb takes a detailed approach. We’ll look at your medical history, do a physical check, and use tests.

What are the treatment options for numbness in the buttock area?

How we treat numbness in the buttock depends on why it’s happening. We might suggest home remedies, medical treatments, or physical therapy.

How can I prevent numbness in the buttocks?

To avoid numbness in the buttocks, you need to take care of your nerves. This means using ergonomic chairs, exercising, and making lifestyle changes.

When should I see a doctor for buttock numbness?

If you notice sudden numbness, weakness, or pain in your buttock, see a doctor. Also, if your symptoms don’t go away or get worse, it’s time to get help.

Why is my left bum cheek numb?

Numbness in one bum cheek can be from nerve pressure. This might be from sitting too long, piriformis syndrome, or other health issues.

What is piriformis syndrome?

Piriformis syndrome happens when the piriformis muscle presses on the sciatic nerve. This can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the buttock area.

How does sciatica cause numbness in the buttocks?

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve gets irritated or compressed. This can lead to numbness, tingling, and pain in the buttock and down the leg.

References

  1. Healthline. Numbness in Buttocks: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/numbness-in-buttocks (Healthline)
  2. American Academy of Family Physicians via FamilyDoctor.org. Piriformis Syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.familydoctor.org/condition/piriformis-syndrome/ (familydoctor.org)
  3. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Piriformis Syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448172/ (NCBI)
  4. Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS). Sciatica – Pain that Radiates from the Low Back or Buttock into the Leg. Retrieved from https://www.hss.edu/health-library/conditions-and-treatments/list/sciatica

Subscribe to Liv E-newsletter