What is Piriformis syndrome?

 The Piriformis muscle is used to rotate the leg outward (laterally). It is found deep in the buttock region, and can become tight, causing a neuromuscular disorder (see sciatica).

 The sciatic nerve travels close to the Piriformis muscle and in some cases travels directly through it. Once the Piriformis muscle places pressure on the sciatic nerve it causes pain to radiate into the back, hip and down the leg, also known as sciatic pain.

Possible causes of Piriformis syndrome

Piriformis syndrome is commonly caused by the thigh muscles that are attached the inside of your leg (adductors) becoming tight. This in turn can place pressure on nerves causing pain and reducing you range of movement at the leg and hip.

Anatomy of Piriformis:

The Piriformis is a small muscle located deep in the buttock region. It originates from the sacrum, found at the base of the spine and attaches to the medial (inside), top end of the femur (thigh bone).

 The sciatic nerve that can be associated with this condition runs down the spine exiting through the Lumbar and Sacrum sections of the spine. It then passes closely by the Piriformis (Passing through the Piriformis on 10% of people) running down the lateral side (outer) of the leg.

What are the symptoms of the Piriformis syndrome?

·         Tenderness in the area around the muscle.

·         Specific pain to the buttock region.

·         Pain that can radiate down the hamstring and sometimes into the calf muscle. Due to this it may feel like a hamstring strain, but this can be differentiated on touch as there will be no pain.

·         Reduced range of movement at the hip and leg.

·         Also see Sciatica

How to treat Piriformis syndrome

·         Apply heat treatment to reduce tension and aid recovery. Only do this if you are sure it is an acute injury (minor / early).

·         Stretch the Piriformis muscle and use Miofascial release techniques on the adductors.

·         See a physiotherapist or sport massage therapist for advice and, or treatment.

·         Strengthen the muscles and rehabilitate yourself with the guidance of Health Professionals.