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Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle irritates the sciatic nerve, causing pain. Understand its symptoms and exercises to relieve pain and prevent recurrence.

About this condition

Piriformis syndrome is a neuromuscular condition characterised by pain, tingling, or numbness in the buttocks, which may radiate down the leg. It occurs when the piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks region, compresses or irritates the sciatic nerve, which runs beneath or through the piriformis muscle. This compression can lead to symptoms similar to those of sciatica, including pain, numbness, or tingling along the path of the sciatic nerve.

What you may be feeling

Buttock pain: Individuals with piriformis syndrome often experience deep, aching pain in one buttock, which may worsen with sitting or activities that involve prolonged sitting or walking.
Radiating pain: Pain may radiate down the back of the thigh and into the lower leg and foot, mimicking the symptoms of sciatica. The pain may be sharp, shooting, or burning in nature.
Tingling or numbness: Some individuals may experience tingling, numbness, or pins-and-needles sensations in the buttock, thigh, or leg affected by piriformis syndrome.
Muscle tightness: Tightness or spasms in the piriformis muscle and surrounding muscles of the buttock and hip region may occur, contributing to pain and discomfort.
Pain with sitting or walking: Activities that involve sitting for prolonged periods, walking, climbing stairs, or squatting may exacerbate symptoms of piriformis syndrome.

How we can help you

Stretching exercises

Specific stretching exercises targeting the piriformis muscle and surrounding hip muscles can help alleviate muscle tightness and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Strengthening exercises

Strengthening exercises focusing on the hip abductors, external rotators, and stabilising muscles can help improve hip joint stability, reduce strain on the piriformis muscle, and support proper biomechanics during movement.

Manual therapy

Hands-on techniques such as massage, soft tissue mobilization, and trigger point release can help relax tight muscles, improve blood flow, and alleviate pain in the buttock and hip region.

Postural correction

Physiotherapists can provide education on proper posture and alignment to reduce stress on the piriformis muscle and sciatic nerve, helping to prevent exacerbation of symptoms.

Activity modification

Guidance on modifying activities and avoiding aggravating movements can help individuals manage pain and reduce compression on the sciatic nerve during daily activities.

Modalities

Therapeutic modalities such as heat therapy, cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation may be used to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area.

So, what next?

By addressing muscle imbalances, improving flexibility, and reducing compression on the sciatic nerve, physiotherapy can help individuals with piriformis syndrome manage pain, improve function, and return to their normal activities with reduced discomfort and improved quality of life.

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