PIRIFORMIS SYNDROME
WHAT IS THE PIRIFORMIS?
The piriformis is a small muscle in your buttocks. It is attached to your sacrum on the one end and the top part of your femur on the other. Its main function is to turn your leg outwards.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF PIRIFORMIS SYNDROME?
· Deep pain in the buttock
· Tingling and numbness in the buttock radiating into the leg (similar to sciatica)
· Weakness of the leg
· Tight buttock and hip
· Pain with sitting for extended periods
· Pain that worsens during the day
WHAT CAUSES PIRIFORMIS SYNDROME?
The sciatic nerve leaves the pelvis area underneath the piriformis muscle on its way to the leg. In 10% of the population the sciatic nerve passes through the muscle. The sciatic nerve, due to its position, is thus prone to being pinched by the piriformis if any tightness or trauma occurs in this area.
DIAGNOSIS
The elimination of sciatica is an important part of diagnosing piriformis syndrome. Current symptoms and a range of objective muscle tests and palpation will reveal the diagnosis quickly. Radiological imaging is only helpful in ruling out other potential causes of pain.
TREATMENT
Piriformis syndrome reacts well to treatment. Treatment consists of stretches, soft tissue therapy and electrotherapy modalities.
If you have a pain in your butt that will not go away, call 780 723 1985 now. Physiotherapy can help relieve your pain.
