Published on: 5/21/2025
What Might Cause Leg Pain Extending From the Buttocks to the Calf?
Leg pain from the buttocks to the calf might be caused by sciatica or a problem with the sciatic nerve, and less commonly, by a tumor or blood clot.
Explanation
Pain that starts in the buttocks and goes down to the calf can be caused by several things. One common cause is sciatica, which happens when the sciatic nerve is irritated or pressured. This nerve runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down each leg.
Another possible cause is a tumor affecting the sciatic nerve. Tumors can grow and press on the nerve, causing pain from the buttocks down the leg. This is less common but can be serious.
Lastly, a blood clot in the leg, known as deep venous thrombosis (DVT), can cause pain and swelling in the leg. This is also a serious condition that needs medical attention.
If you have leg pain, it is important to talk to a doctor to find out what is causing it and to get the right treatment.
(References)
- Davis D, Taqi M, & Vasudevan A. (2025). Sciatica. Unknown Journal, 29939685.
- Rodero L, Canga A, Figols J, Berciano J, & Combarros O. (2004). [Buttock mass and malignant sciatic nerve tumor]. Neurologia (Barcelona, Spain), 14762732.
- Bustamante S, & Houlton PG. (2001). Swelling of the leg, deep venous thrombosis and .... Pain research & management, 11854766.
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