Hi,
Pain in the gluteal and hamstring region may be difficult to identify due to the complex interaction of deep muscles (also known as the hip rotators), the bigger superficial muscles (such as the hamstrings and glutes) and the main nerve that runs in the back of the leg (the sciatic nerve).
The character of pain indicates the likelihood of the offending source. Ligamentous or muscular pain is similar to muscle aches, toothaches or normal limb injury. It is identified by sharp, tearing pain and usually gets better with rest. Off-the-shelf painkillers are usually effective in reducing the discomfort.
Nerve pain, or neuropathic pain, is either burning or ice-cold, associated with electric shocks and numbness; this is similar to hitting your funny bone. Numbenss or weakness may accompany the pain. In extreme cases, the nerve becomes so sensitive that there is pain in the affected area while bathing or exposed to wind. This is not relieved by common painkillers.
Your symptoms seem to suggest a deep gluteal syndrome, more commonly diagnosed as 'piriformis syndrome'. This is usually muscular in origin; but the close interaction of the muscles with the sciatic nerve means that any muscle injury and inflammation will irritate the nerve. This will explain your sensation of weakness.
A focussed bedside examination will usually confirm this diagnosis. Commonly, physicians may send you for a nerve conduction test, which may turn out normal as this only tests for specific types of nerves.
