PIRIFORMIS SYNDROME

If you suffer from pain or muscle weakness, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is Piriformis Syndrome?

Spine Specialists define Piriformis syndrome as a neuromuscular disorder caused by the piriformis muscle compressing the sciatic nerve. The flat band of piriformis muscle located in the buttocks sits at the top of the hip joint, and the thick sciatic nerve passes through the piriformis muscle, runs down through the leg, and branches off into smaller and smaller nerve endings in the feet. When Piriformis syndrome causes the piriformis to press on the sciatic nerve, patients usually report feeling pain, tingling, or numbness in the buttocks. Patients may also experience pain when climbing stairs, sitting down for an extended period of time, or when pressing directly on the piriformis muscle. In spite of all of this, Piriformis Syndrome does not commonly present as the cause of sciatica.

Indication of Piriformis Syndrome

When the piriformis muscle becomes tight, inflamed, or spasms, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to symptoms such as:

1. Pain: The hallmark symptom of piriformis syndrome is pain in the buttock region. The pain may be deep, sharp, or dull and may radiate down the back of the thigh or leg. It can sometimes be mistaken for sciatica, as the symptoms are similar.
2. Tingling or Numbness: Compression of the sciatic nerve can cause tingling or numbness in the buttocks, back of the thigh, or leg. This sensation may extend down to the foot.
3. Muscle Weakness: In some cases, piriformis syndrome can lead to weakness in the affected leg or difficulty with certain movements, such as walking, climbing stairs, or rising from a seated position.
4. Aggravation by Certain Activities: Symptoms of piriformis syndrome may worsen with activities that involve prolonged sitting, running, walking uphill, or engaging in activities that require repetitive movements of the hip.

It’s worth noting that piriformis syndrome can sometimes be challenging to diagnose, as its symptoms overlap with other conditions such as herniated discs or other causes of sciatica. Imaging tests such as MRI or nerve conduction studies are not typically conclusive in diagnosing piriformis syndrome. Diagnosis is often based on a thorough physical examination, medical history, and ruling out other potential causes of the symptoms.

Treatment for Piriformis Syndrome

Treatment for piriformis syndrome may include:

1. Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding or modifying activities that exacerbate symptoms can provide relief.
2. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Specific stretching and strengthening exercises can help alleviate tightness in the piriformis muscle and improve hip flexibility and stability.
3. Heat or Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area may help reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or muscle relaxants may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation.
5. Physical Therapy: Working with a physical therapist can help address muscle imbalances, improve posture, and provide targeted treatments to relieve symptoms.
6. Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections or local anesthetics may be used to reduce pain and inflammation in the piriformis muscle.

Surgery is rarely needed for piriformis syndrome and is considered only when conservative treatments fail to provide relief.

If you have any questions for our  Spine Orthopedic specialists in the Dallas area, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Telemedicine appointments are also available.