Sacral dimple

Definition

What is sacral dimple?

A sacral dimple is an indentation, present at birth, in the skin on the lower back. It’s usually located just above the crease between the buttocks. Most sacral dimples are harmless and don’t require any treatment.

Sacral dimples that are accompanied by a nearby tuft of hair, skin tag or certain types of skin discoloration are sometimes associated with a serious underlying abnormality of the spine or spinal cord. In these instances, your child’s doctor may recommend an imaging test. If an abnormality is discovered, treatment depends on the underlying cause.

How common is sacral dimple?

About 3 to 8 percent of the population has a sacral dimple. A very small percentage of people with a sacral dimple can have spinal abnormalities. Please discuss with your doctor for further information.

Symptoms

What are the symptoms of sacral dimple?

A sacral dimple consists of an indentation, or “pit,’ in the skin on the lower back, just above the crease between the buttocks.

There may be some symptoms not listed above. If you have any concerns about a symptom, please consult your doctor.

When should I see my doctor?

If you have any signs or symptoms listed above or have any questions, please consult with your doctor. Everyone’s body acts differently. It is always best to discuss with your doctor what is best for your situation.

Causes

What causes sacral dimple?

Scientists aren’t exactly sure what causes a sacral dimple. It’s a congenital condition, which means a person is born with it. It forms for unknown reasons during fetal development.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for sacral dimple?

There are no risk factors for developing a sacral dimple.

Diagnosis & treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. ALWAYS consult with your doctor for more information.

How is sacral dimple diagnosed?

A sacral dimple is visually evident to doctors during a newborn’s physical exam. If a sacral dimple has no unusual characteristics, it’s called a simple sacral dimple. There’s a high probability that it will have no effect on a person’s health. Because of this, doctors generally don’t recommend any action.

How is sacral dimple treated?

There is no treatment for a sacral dimple. Sometimes the “dimple,” or pit in the skin, can collect dirt, fecal matter, and sweat. That increases the risk for infection or irritation. Keeping the area clean will reduce that risk. If you have a baby with a sacral dimple, using a diaper rash cream over the dimple can help keep stool out of the pitted area.

If a person with a sacral dimple has any symptoms of spinal cord problems, like muscle weakness or numbness in the legs, or loss of control of the bladder or bowels, it’s important to see a neurologist for evaluation. While uncommon, surgery to correct an improperly closed spinal cord may be recommended.

Lifestyle changes & home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can help me manage sacral dimple?

Sacral dimples are common and unproblematic in the vast majority of cases. Rarely, they can be indicative of underlying spinal defects. Even when those defects occur, they are usually mild and produce no symptoms. Most people with sacral dimples live normal, healthy lives. The dimple has no effect on their movement or lifestyle.

If you have any questions, please consult with your doctor to better understand the best solution for you.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.