Piriformis syndrome

From Articlemuse

Because of their close proximity, sciatic pain and piriformis syndrome are similar conditions.

Piriformis syndrome is causes by a muscular irritation of the sciatic nerve. The resulting pain is like sciatic pain – starting in the back and running down the back of the leg and into the foot. Commonly, this condition affects women and athletes like marathon runners and walkers.

The piriformis muscle is a found deep in the back behind the gluteus maximus. It begins in the lower back and extends down each thigh. The piriformis helps rotate the hip. The sciatic nerve runs along this muscle. Piriformis syndrome and the pain associated with it increases when this muscle is stretched or over-exerted and puts pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can cause lower back pain and pain that emanates down the back of your leg. Although not the same as sciatic pain, it is very similar.

When diagnosed with piriformis syndrome, you’ll probably visit an orthopaedist who will advise you to begin an exercise routine aimed at resolving the problem.

Stretching the piriformis muscle is a vital exercise and one of the most effective in curing the syndrome. There are a number of exercises that can be done to reduce the symptoms piriformis syndrome. Specific stretches involve the hamstring, piriformis and hip muscles.

Piriformis syndrome is usually diagnosed by noting symptoms and performing tests. MRI and x-ray testing can help provide physicians with information needed to properly diagnose the condition. These types of tests can also help to eliminate the possibility of other, more serious, causes for the pain.

Consulting a physiotherapist can help you develop an exercise routine to alleviate some of your symptoms. Combined with medications to relieve pain and inflammation, stretching and exercise can often bring great relief to the patient. Surgery is usually only considered when all other possible solutions have failed.

It is best to avoid activities and exercises that aggravate your pain. While it is important to stay as active as possible and stretch and exercise within your limits, overexerting yourself can lead to further irritation of the affected muscles and nerves. A physiotherapist can provide great guidance about setting appropriate goals and limits.