Ischial bursitis

Ischial bursitis causes pain down the posterior aspect of the upper thigh.^[1][2] There may be pain over the ischial tuberosity.^[2] Chronic ischial bursitis may cause paraesthesia.^[2] This pain may become immediately more severe when sitting down.^[3]

Ischial bursitis is usually caused by prolonged sitting on a hard surface.^[1] It may also be related to ischial apophysitis, which may be caused by exercise, particularly in young and athletic patients.^[1]

The ischial bursa is a synovial bursa located between gluteus maximus muscle and ischial tuberosity.^[4] When in a seated position, the ischial bursa is put under the highest amount of pressure, which is most significant against a hard surface.^[3]

Friction from exercise can lead to inflammation of the ischial bursa, known as bursitis.^[1]

Ischial bursitis is usually diagnosed clinically based on symptoms. An x-ray (using injected contrast agent) may be used to identify the formation of calluses.^[1]

Ischial bursitis is usually treated conservatively. Lifestyle changes may be advised, avoiding certain exercises and sitting on hard surfaces.^[1] Analgesics, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, may be used to relieve pain.^[1]

Ischial bursitis may be treated with medical and surgical interventions if it is persistent or particularly severe. Analgesics, anaesthetics, or triamcinolone may be injected to relieve pain.^[3]

Ischial bursitis is a fairly rare illness. When a patient presents with symptoms, other conditions such as a spinal disc herniation may be considered.^[3]

Ischial bursitis is also known as "weaver's bottom" and "tailor's bottom" after professions which involve prolonged sitting on a hard surface.^[1]