What can I do about my buttocks?

Mark Chen, physiotherapist

Dear Micheline,

The question is whether the complaints stem from an overload, a trauma or an ‘underload’. I’ll go through all three options with you.

1. Overload

An overload, for example by repeating the same type of movement too often, can often be remedied by simply relieving the load. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do anything, but it is important to identify the impeding factor and replace it with an activity that does not (or less) stress the region so that the muscles can recover.

2. Trauma

In the event of a trauma, such as a fall or sprain, there is a process that the body must go through in order to make a full recovery. Depending on the type of tissue affected and how severe, the expectation for recovery may vary, but a minimum time of two to four weeks should be adhered to. During that time, physical therapy treatments can help relieve the pain, but it’s more important to give your body time to recover.

3. Underload

When underloaded, the complaint is a result of weakness. As we age, our level of activity often declines, and with it the ability of the muscles and joints to tolerate stress. In the long run, movements and activities that are normally not a problem can suddenly be experienced as ‘taxing’. This is a signal to start a program to strengthen muscles, bones and joints so that they can better withstand the activities that are expected of them.

I hope this helps!

Mark

Do you also have a question? Then ask one of our experts. Always go to your doctor with urgent questions, the experts are not the right person for that. They also do not diagnose. You can find the other conditions here.

Mark Chen is a physiotherapist and NASM trained personal trainer. Since August 2014 he has been working in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. His expertise lies in analyzing and optimizing movement patterns. Dry needling and medical taping are an important part of his vision and training predominates.