Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis syndrome emerges when the piriformis muscle, extending from the lower spine to the upper thigh bone, exerts pressure on the sciatic nerve. This compression leads to the onset of pain, accompanied by sensations of tingling and numbness in the buttocks, often radiating down the back of the leg. The discomfort tends to intensify after extended periods of sitting, as well as during activities like walking, running, and ascending stairs. While this syndrome can manifest without a discernible cause or develop following routine physical activity, it is occasionally triggered by traumatic incidents, such as car accidents or falls.

Individuals grappling with piriformis syndrome typically experience tenderness in the buttocks, coupled with pain that extends through the back of the thigh, calf, and even into the foot. The initial presentation may consist of severe, burning pain in the buttocks, which escalates during movements—such as walking or running—that bring about the piriformis muscle’s compression of the sciatic nerve. These symptoms often persist over a prolonged period, impacting patients for years.

Conditions

Book Appointment

Diagnosis of piriformis syndrome hinges on a comprehensive physical examination and a thorough symptom review. Various positions may be employed to gauge pain levels in the affected leg. Further diagnostic measures might encompass MRI or CT scans.

Managing piriformis syndrome typically commences with exercises aimed at stretching the piriformis muscle. Conservative treatments like hot and cold therapy, massage, and temporary cessation of pain-inducing activities are often considered. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications might be employed for pain relief. In cases of persistent discomfort, administering steroid injections into the piriformis muscle and the sciatic nerve can provide relief. In instances of severe affliction, surgical intervention may become necessary to alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Book an appointment

"*" indicates required fields

Name*

First Last

Email*

Phone*

Preferred Appt Timeframe*

Purpose of Visit*

Questions / Comments

CAPTCHA

Name

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Related Procedures

Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) involves the implantation of an electronic device to alleviate chronic back and leg pain. This device, referred to as a “spinal cord stimulator” or “dorsal column stimulator,” emits electrical impulses through wires or electrodes placed in proximity to the spinal cord.

Facet Joint Injections

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) involves the implantation of an electronic device to alleviate chronic back and leg pain. This device, referred to as a “spinal cord stimulator” or “dorsal column stimulator,” emits electrical impulses through wires or electrodes placed in proximity to the spinal cord.

Surgical Team

John Knightly, MD, FAANS

Scott A. Meyer, MD, FAANS

Jonathan J. Lee, MD

Pain Management Team

Michael Rudman, MD

Terrence Welsh, MD

Richard Winne, MD

Physiatry Team

Gautam Malhotra, MD

Steve Lim, MD

Joseph Rempson, MD

Michael Mehnert, MD

Nurse Practitioner / DNP Team

Megan Filoramo APN-C

Monica Kleban DNP

Gina Rizzo APN-C

Kimberly Leinker APN-C

Brielle Cook APN-C

Procedure Thoracic

Lumbar Procedure

Cervical Procedure