Piriformis Syndrome is a condition that affects the piriformis muscle, which is a small muscle deep in the buttocks. It is distinguished by buttock pain and discomfort that can radiate down the back of the leg. Piriformis Syndrome is caused by the piriformis muscle irritating or compressing the sciatic nerve. Piriformis syndrome is thought to affect 6-8% of the population at some point in their lives. It affects people between the ages of 40 and 60 and is more common in women than men. 

Piriformis Syndrome is usually caused by the following factors: 

• Overuse or injury of the piriformis muscle 
• Tightness or spasm in the piriformis muscle 
• Anatomical variations, such as the position of the sciatic nerve 
• Trauma to the buttock area 
• Sitting for prolonged periods of time 
• Running or cycling activities 

The most common symptom of Piriformis Syndrome is pain in the buttock region, which can be sharp or dull and can radiate down the back of the leg. Other symptoms may include: 

• Numbness or tingling in the buttock or leg 
• Weakness in the affected leg 
• Difficulty sitting or standing for long periods of time 
• Pain when walking or running 
• Pain when climbing stairs 

If you have Piriformis Syndrome symptoms, you should seek medical attention to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment. To rule out other conditions, a physical exam may be performed, and imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan may be ordered. 

Piriformis Syndrome is typically treated through rest and self-care measures such as applying heat or ice to the affected area, taking anti-inflammatory medication, and stretching exercises. It is critical to avoid aggravating activities and gradually increase physical activity as symptoms improve. 

Physiotherapy may be recommended in some cases to help manage symptoms and prevent future injuries. A physiotherapist can evaluate your condition and create a customised treatment plan that may include: 

• Manual therapy techniques to reduce pain and muscle tension 
• Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve flexibility and stability 
• Gait analysis and correction to improve biomechanics and reduce stress on the legs 
• Education on proper posture, body mechanics, and injury prevention strategies 

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release the piriformis muscle or decompress the sciatic nerve. 

How R3 Physiotherapy Can Help 

We have a team of experienced and qualified physiotherapists at R3 Physiotherapy who specialise in the treatment of Piriformis Syndrome. Our physiotherapists can evaluate your condition, make a diagnosis, and create a personalised treatment plan to help you manage your symptoms and avoid future injuries. 

A combination of manual therapy techniques, stretching and strengthening exercises, and education on proper posture and body mechanics may be used in our treatment approach. We also provide advice on lifestyle changes and ergonomic changes to help reduce stress on the affected area. 

In conclusion piriformis syndrome can be a painful and debilitating condition, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, symptoms can be managed, and future injuries avoided. By addressing underlying biomechanical issues and providing targeted exercises and education, physiotherapy can play an important role in the treatment and prevention of Piriformis Syndrome. If you have Piriformis Syndrome symptoms, it is critical that you seek medical attention and take steps to manage your condition. Make an appointment with one of our physiotherapists at R3 Physiotherapy today. 

References 

Hopayian, K., Song, F., Riera, R., & Sambandan, S. (2010). The clinical features of the piriformis syndrome: a systematic review. Eur Spine J, 19(12), 2095-2109. doi: 10.1007/s00586-010-1504-9. PMID: 20596735, PMCID: PMC2997212.

Sadiq, M., Hussain, S. A., & Meganath, P. (2020). Hand on hip’ sign: A novel screening test and diagnostic tool in piriformis syndrome. SAGE Open Medical Case Reports, 8, 2050313X20961113. https://doi.org/10.1177/2210491720961113