What is Piriformis Syndrome?

Piriformis syndrome is a condition in which the piriformis muscle, located in the buttock region, spasms and causes buttock pain. The piriformis muscle also can irritate the nearby sciatic nerve and cause pain, numbness and tingling along the back of the leg and into the foot. Piriformis pain can worsen with prolonged sitting, climbing stairs, or squatting.

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Cause

Piriformis syndrome is a fairly uncommon condition, and typically develops after a direct injury to the buttock area or from repetitive trauma to the piriformis muscle due to excessive physical activity or poor posture, which makes the piriformis weak, tight, overused, or inflamed.

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Symptoms

• Pain in the buttock area, which can extend as far as halfway down the leg, and even to the back of the thigh

• Tingling sensation in the hamstrings (back of the thigh). 

• Pain going when going up or down stairs or inclines. 

• Pain when walking, or sitting for long periods, or when crossing one leg over the other.  

• Reduced mobility of the hip joint.

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Treatment

• Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)

• Exercise and Stretching

• Chiropractic Care

• Massage

• Physical Therapy

• Corticosteroid Trigger Point Injection

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For expert treatment in Spinal disorders, Musculoskeletal Medicine, and Pain Management, call the Orthopaedic Spine & Joint Center today! Call (614) 318-0808.