What is Dead Butt Syndrome?

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"Gluteal amnesia" or "Gluteus Medius Tendinosis," also known as "dead butt syndrome," is a real health issue affecting countless people. The scariest thing? You may not even know you have it. If "gluteal amnesia" sounds like your butt has lost its memory, that’s because it kind of actually does.

“Sitting too long can restrict blood flow, leading to hip pain, lower backache, problems with your ankles. The glutes may fail to activate properly even when performing exercises targeting them.”

 

Why does it stop working? 

There are many reasons: it may be due to an injury the lower back or hip, overuse, a hard fall on your butt, or lack of exercise. The problem is, once it stops working as efficiently, many other muscles try to compensate, resulting in issues like IT band tendinitis, hip pain, meniscal tears, and plantar fasciitis.

When dead butt syndrome (hereafter known as DBS) occurs, you’ll probably feel a tingling sensation in your backside, just like you would in foot after crossing your legs for too long or in your arm after napping in a contorted position (oops).

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The “falling asleep” sensation occurs because your nerves are being compressed or irritated. While some instances of DBS are mild, long-term inactivity “has been shown in multiple studies to have a major impact on how well we can contract and use our glutes effectively,” says Green.

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So how can you ensure your job doesn’t cause problems with your tus (and the rest of your body!) down the line? Aside from taking regular breaks from sitting—like going for a walk or doing a quick workout during your lunch break—it’s also key to make sure your booty gets the exercise needs regularly through targeted moves.