Sciatica Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Sciatica, including details on treatment, prevention, medication.

Possible generators of retrotrochanteric gluteal and thigh pain: the gemelli-obturator internus complex.

Cox JM, Bakkum BW

Post Graduate Faculty, National University of Health Sciences, Fort Wayne, Ind, USA. jcox200@comcast.net

OBJECTIVE: To investigate and correlate the anatomy of the gluteal region with the clinical findings of retrotrochanteric and posterior thigh pain, as seen in clinical chiropractic practice, and describe potential treatment options. METHODS: A descriptive gross anatomic study is correlated to a case presentation of a patient with deep persistent aching pain in the retrotrochanteric region of the left hip and upper posterolateral thigh. RESULTS: The structures that are located in the same location as the retrotrochanteric pain described by the patient are the gemelli-obturator internus muscle complex and associated bursae. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with persistent gluteal and sciatica-like pain, especially when centered in the retrotrochanteric region, the gemelli-obturator internus muscle complex and associated bursae should be considered as a possible source of the pain.

Published 26 September 2005 in J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 28(7): 534-8.
Full-text of this article is available online (may require subscription).

© 2004-2008 Sciatica Research Today. All Rights Reserved.