Expert: Dr. Man Tran, Ph.D., D.C., L.Ac. - 3/23/2009

Question
I have had burning in my left and right buttocks, also with burning going down left leg.  MRI-states L3/L4 says minimal facet arthrosis. L4/L5 says bilateral facet arthrosis.  Small focus of decreased signal seen on T1 wieghted images in right iliac bone.  Mostly a benign process. (impression) Minimal degenerative changes without disc protrusion or spinal stenosis.  Why am I in pain?  This MRI doesn't seem to appear to be that bad?  What does this mean???

Answer
Dear Theresa,

There might be some issue going on at the buttock area.  There are muscles there that can cause buttock sharp pain going down to the leg as well.  Sciatica can originate from the low back if the spine is causing an impingement on the nerve.  However, the piriformis muscle in the buttock area can be inflame which result in pressure on the sciatic nerve as well.  

I suggest that your legs and buttocks be examine as well.

Good luck.