Deep gluteal pain/syndrome

The deep gluteal space is the area between the lower edge of the gluteus maximus, the hamstring tendon at the sit bone (ischial tuberosity), and between the hip and sacrotuberous ligament. This area is a common cause of posterior hip pain as well as numbness and tingling that extends along the back of the thigh and even along the upper part of the inner thigh and groin.

Piriformis syndrome is considered a subset of deep gluteal syndrome, and as identified, this condition’s symptoms present also as sciatica. A detailed history is important, and what really serves to differentiate these different conditions is palpation of the muscles and their tone and texture, palpation with movement of the hip and pelvis, and looking for inflammation of the tissues as well as the nerves.