Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis syndrome is a  neuromuscular disorder which is a common condition that is often misdiagnosed as Sciatica that can cause pain and decreased mobility in those who suffer from it. The pain and challenges associated with piriformis syndrome can be overcome with both massage and exercise therapy from Cast Away Therapies.

Piriformis Syndrome Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is an effective way to treat piriformis syndrome when resulting from soft tissue causes, such as hypertonicity, trigger points, and altered posture. However it should be noted massage therapy should not be occurring within the ten days following a cortisone injection. Massage therapy has the ability to loosen up the lumbar muscles and loosen up the hip flexors. This will help you relax, relieve pain, and heal from piriformis syndrome.

Piriformis Syndrome Exercise Therapy

While massage therapy works well helping piriformis syndrome patients recover faster and alleviate pain, piriformis syndrome therapy should also include exercises and stretches which will be taught to you during your consultation with Cast Away Therapies. The piriformis syndrome exercises and stretches are easy to do, can be done from the floor and  need to be practiced at least three times per day.  While we are always happy to help you with, the piriformis exercises and stretches we teach can even be done on your time from the comfort of your own home.

Piriformis Syndrome Causes:

Piriformis syndrome is caused when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed by the piriformis muscle in the buttocks. The piriformis muscle is a flat muscle located in the buttocks near the top of the hip joint. Lower body movement and stabilization depends on the piriformis muscle. This helps us walk, shift weight, and maintain balance. The functions of piriformis muscle become paramount in sports and lifting and rotating the thighs. In short, the piriformis muscle is involved in almost every hip and leg movement.

The sciatic nerve is a long, thick nerve in the lower body. The sciatic nerve runs alongside or through the piriformis muscle and down the back of the leg branching into smaller nerves that feed the legs ending in the feet. When the sciatic nerve is compressed or pressed on too hard, it can cause a spasm in the Piriformis muscle resulting in pain and difficulty in moving the hips and legs.

Piriformis Syndrome Signs & Symptoms:

  • Buttocks numbness
  • Buttock tingling
  • Buttock pain
  • Pain in the leg
  • Pain when sitting
  • Pain when climbing the stairs

Let’s Start Healing Your Piriformis Syndrome Today!

You should not have to live in pain! Call (919) 841-3728 or complete the short form below to see how we can help you heal from Piriformis Syndrome from our facility in Knightdale, NC.