Piriformis Syndrome
Are you suffering with intense pain in your buttocks?
Pathology
The piriformis is a lateral rotator muscle located in the hip, which is prone to tightness. The piriformis sits on top of the sciatic nerve, which passes down leg. The tighter and shorter the piriformis muscles becomes, the greater likelihood that the sciatic nerve underneath the muscle gets impinged. This can cause localised deep pain in the buttocks, and in some cases, radiating pain down the leg.
Signs and Symptoms
- Tenderness in the gluteus maximus.
- Local pain over the piriformis.
- Radiating pain into the glutes, down the leg and possibly the foot.
- Laterally rotated hip.
- Limited medial rotation of the hip.
- Reduced strength in the affected leg.
- Negative slump test - to rule out sciatica.
Possible Causes
- Poor posture.
- Inhibited recruitment or strength of the gluteus maximus.
- Incorrect movement patterns.
- Postural adaption.
- Poor stability or movement control.
Treatment
Piriformis syndrome can be treated with massage, stretching and physio exercises.
Massage and relief to the piriformis, glutes and lower back is particularly important. Reducing your sitting time for prolonged periods helps prevent shortening the piriformis and putting pressure on the sciatic nerve.
At Thrive Therapy & Fitness, we have treated several cases of piriformis syndrome.
If you are currently struggling we would love to help you!
