Piriformis Syndrome - What is it?

Piriformis syndrome is an uncommon condition that causes pain and numbness in the buttocks, muscle stiffness, and a burning sensation radiating down the back of your leg. It originates from compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle located deep in the lower buttock area. Although it is more commonly diagnosed in women, anyone can experience this discomfort if their sciatic nerve becomes irritated.

What are the causes of Piriformis Syndrome?

The piriformis muscle plays a major role in allowing the body to perform movements concerning the lower body. These range from walking, running, and bending down to shifting weight between different feet. What makes this muscle so important is that it is located directly above the sciatic nerve, which runs through the lower spine, down the back of the leg, and all the way to the foot. 

When this particular muscle gets injured or irritated, it can cause serious spasms. This ultimately leads to swelling or tightening in the area, which in turn puts pressure on the sciatic nerve leading to pain. 

One of the most common causes of swelling or injury to the muscle is overused. These activities that cause muscle spasms are;

• Sitting for long periods
• Too much exercise 
• Running, walking, or doing other repetitive activities
• Playing sports
• Climbing stairs
• Lifting heavy objects

Trauma from car accidents, falls, sudden twisting of the hip or penetrating wounds can also result in piriformis syndrome.

Symptoms

Piriformis syndrome is most commonly associated with sciatica. Other symptoms include;

• Difficulty sitting
• Pain that worsens with activity
• Dull ache or tenderness in the buttock
• A tingling sensation in your buttocks and along the back of your leg
• Pain from sitting that worsens as you continue to sit
• A severe lower body pain that makes it impossible to function

The pain from piriformis syndrome usually only affects one side of the body but can also happen on both sides. 

Self Care For Piriformis Syndrome

When it comes to treating Piriformis syndrome, the aim is to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and reduce pain. You may be recommended to follow the following self-care tips by your healthcare provider.

• Avoid activities that trigger the pain
• Home exercises to stretch out and relax the muscles around the buttocks
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or Acetaminophen
• Applying ice and heat over the affected area
• Using proper posture when sitting, standing, or driving. Sit up and avoid slouching.

Chiropractic Treatment for Piriformis Syndrome

Chiropractic techniques can be an effective treatment for Piriformis syndrome.  Some common chiropractic management strategies include manual therapies such as tissue mobilization and stretching to help restore normal muscle length and movement. Additionally, chiropractic adjustments to the pelvis and spinal column can provide relief by restoring proper function to the joints in the area. Low level laser therapy can also be used to relieve deep inflammation of the Piriformis muscle and surrounding tissues.

Conclusion

Piriformis syndrome is a condition that happens when the piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve. The symptoms of this condition can include numbness, pain, or tingling in your butt, hip, or upper leg. With rest and simple treatment, piriformis syndrome usually subsides within a few days or weeks. However, if you have an injury that has led to the pain or if your symptoms last for more than a few weeks, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider.

References:

https://medlineplus.gov/

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/

https://www.health.harvard.edu/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/