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The piriformis muscle, a small muscle located deep in the
buttocks, plays the important role of rotating the legs outwards. Piriformis
syndrome is a painful condition that occurs when the piriformis muscle becomes
too tight, compressing the sciatic nerve that runs through the buttocks. Characterized
by symptoms of pain, tenderness, and occasionally, numbness around the area of
the buttocks, piriformis syndrome symptoms may also expand down an individual’s
leg including the calf.
Piriformis syndrome can be caused by several reasons but
there are two frequently notable causes for the condition. First, sitting for
extended periods of time can cause the piriformis muscle to tighten. Second, an
accident resulting in direct injury such as a fall or a sports-related injury
can damage the piriformis muscle. Trauma to this muscle in the buttocks can
cause the surrounding tissue to become inflamed and swollen, leading to
compression and possible irritation of the sciatic nerve.
Muscle spasms can also cause piriformis syndrome. Usually
starting as a muscle strain, a muscle spasm can occur abruptly and cause pain. However,
the source of muscle spasms can frequently be unknown.
An individual who’s previously experienced piriformis
syndrome can often continue periodically feeling symptoms after exercising or
sitting for prolonged periods of time without stretching the muscles. Regardless
of the initial cause, being aware of your treatment options for piriformis
syndrome is essential towards alleviating the painful symptoms and healing the
condition.
Over the counter or prescribed medications, such as
anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxers, are frequently used by individuals
to decrease the pain from piriformis syndrome. A doctor can also inject
medication directly into the piriformis muscle to improve the condition.
Heat therapy can also relieve tightness in the piriformis
muscle and help heal the entire region. Applying heat is a common way to relax
and loosen tight muscles. Individuals with piriformis syndrome can find relief
from their painful symptoms by regularly applying heat directly to the affected
area. Although, it’s essential to avoid treating any muscle with heat if there’s
a probability that the muscle may be torn.
Participating in physical activity or sports can be
beneficial towards treating piriformis syndrome. Because the condition is
caused by muscle tightness, an appropriate exercise routine can help loosen the
surrounding muscles and ultimately relieve the symptoms associated with
piriformis syndrome. A medical specialist can recommend a proper set of
exercises in order to stretch and strengthen the muscles of the body. Building
strong muscles can reduce the risk of developing complications as a result of
an injury or condition.
Chiropractic care also offers effective results towards
treating piriformis syndrome. Through the use of chiropractic adjustments and
manual manipulations focused around the spine and pelvis as well as the joints
of the area, a chiropractor may gradually loosen up the surrounding muscles and
help heal the affected region. Chiropractic treatment can be used on its own or
together with the above treatment options to provide a faster recovery and
promote healing. Chiropractic care is an effective type of treatment for
piriformis syndrome because it helps heal the condition naturally by increasing
the blood flow in the area. Once the condition has improved or healed, its
essential to prevent further injury. Stretching properly before any form of
physical activity, taking regular breaks from prolonged sitting, and
maintaining a proper spinal alignment can increase an individual’s chances of
living free of piriformis syndrome and its symptoms in the long run.
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
