The term "weavers bottom" refers to pain in the lower back caused by prolonged sitting and weaving on a loom. Its spelling is based on the pronunciation in British English and can be transcribed using the International Phonetic Alphabet as /ˈwiːvərz ˈbɒtəm/. The first syllable is pronounced as "wee-vuh-z," and the second syllable is pronounced as "bot-uhm." The double "e" in "weavers" indicates a long "e" sound while the "a" in "bottom" is pronounced as the "a" in "hot."
Weaver's bottom, also known as "textile worker's bottom," is a condition characterized by pain, inflammation, and tenderness in the area of the buttocks. This condition predominantly affects individuals whose occupation involves prolonged periods of sitting or working on hard surfaces, such as weavers or textile workers, although it can also be seen in other professions that involve similar postures for extended durations.
The term "weaver's bottom" originates from the historical prevalence of this condition among weavers, who were known to spend long hours sitting on wooden looms while engaging in their trade. The prolonged pressure on the buttocks and surrounding tissues can lead to pain and discomfort in the affected area.
The symptoms of weaver's bottom typically include pain, tenderness, and inflammation localized to the buttock region. Discomfort can worsen with prolonged sitting or pressure on the affected area. In some cases, individuals may also experience numbness or tingling sensations. The condition may vary in severity, ranging from mild discomfort to more severe pain that interferes with daily activities.
Treatment options for weaver's bottom generally involve a combination of self-care measures, such as taking breaks from prolonged sitting, using cushions or pads to alleviate pressure, and practicing good posture. Over-the-counter pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs may be recommended to manage pain and reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, physical therapy or other specialized interventions may be necessary.
Overall, weaver's bottom is a condition characterized by pain, inflammation, and tenderness in the buttock area, typically affecting individuals whose occupation involves prolonged periods of sitting. Prompt recognition and appropriate management can help alleviate symptoms and prevent potential complications.
A condition of similar nature to housemaid's knee, consisting in chronic inflammation of the ischiatic bursa (bursa ischiadica) due to ill-directed pressure.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "weavers bottom" is a colloquialism that refers to a specific type of condition known as "piriformis syndrome". It is not an actual etymological term, but rather a descriptive name for the pain that weavers experience due to the nature of their work.
To understand this, it is necessary to explain the condition itself. Piriformis syndrome is a condition that causes pain and discomfort in the buttock region, specifically the area surrounding the piriformis muscle. This muscle is located deep within the buttock and plays a role in the rotation and stability of the hip joint.
In the past, the weaving industry involved prolonged periods of sitting or standing in a static position, repeatedly using the muscles of the lower back, buttocks, and legs. Weavers often sat on hard wooden benches, which further aggravated the condition.