If you are experiencing a deep ache in your buttock or a sharp pain running down your leg, you might assume it may result from sciatica. However, what if it is something else? Piriformis syndrome is a lesser-known condition that can mimic sciatica, causing discomfort and limiting your ability to move freely.
What Is Piriformis Syndrome?
The piriformis is a small muscle deep in your buttocks. It helps you move your hip. It can press on the sciatic nerve when it becomes tight or inflamed, causing pain, tingling, or numbness. These symptoms are often mistaken for sciatica. Common symptoms include:
- A deep buttock ache (usually on one side)
- Pain that gets worse when sitting, walking, or stairs
- Burning or numbness down the leg
- Tenderness when pressing on the buttock
Unlike sciatica, which comes from spinal issues, piriformis syndrome is a muscle problem—which means treatment needs to target the muscle, not the spine.
Piriformis Syndrome vs. True Sciatica: What’s the Difference?
Both conditions affect the sciatic nerve, but their causes and symptoms differ:
- Piriformis Syndrome – This happens when the piriformis muscle becomes tight or inflamed and presses on the nerve. The pain starts in the buttock and gets worse with movement.
- True Sciatica – This happens due to spinal problems like herniated discs or stenosis. The pain begins in the lower back and spreads down the leg.
When it comes down to it, treating the underlying cause is key. Piriformis-related pain may not improve with traditional sciatica treatments.
How Medical Professionals Treat Piriformis Syndrome
The good news is that there are a number of effective ways to treat piriformis syndrome and manage its symptoms. Here are some that a medical professional might recommend, depending on the specific nature of your case.
Acupuncture for Pain Relief
Acupuncture is a proven method for reducing muscle tightness and inflammation. Acupuncture therapists use thin needles to target specific points, helping to relax the piriformis muscle, boost blood flow, and take pressure off the sciatic nerve. Patients often feel much better after just a few treatment sessions.
Corticosteroid Injections for Inflammation
If your pain is severe, a corticosteroid injection can help calm the inflammation in and around the piriformis muscle. These injections help decrease swelling and calm irritated nerves, offering relief that can last for weeks or even months.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) Therapy
PEMF therapy uses electromagnetic waves to stimulate healing at a cellular level. This non-invasive treatment can reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and accelerate muscle recovery, making it an excellent option for managing piriformis syndrome.
Physical Therapy and Stretching Exercises
Stretching and strengthening exercises can help relax the piriformis muscle and prevent it from compressing the sciatic nerve. Some of the best stretches for piriformis syndrome include:
- Piriformis Stretch – Place one ankle over the opposite knee and slowly lean forward.
- Seated Spinal Twist – Sit with one leg crossed over the other and twist your torso toward the top leg.
- Hip Bridges – Strengthens the glutes and stabilizes the pelvis.
When to Seek Help
If you’ve been dealing with buttock pain, leg tingling, or discomfort when sitting, it’s time to find out what’s causing it. Piriformis syndrome can become chronic if left untreated, making everyday activities more difficult. The sooner you get the help you need, the sooner you can reclaim your life.
Get Relief from Piriformis Syndrome Today
At Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, we specialize in accurate diagnosis and targeted treatments to help you get back to a pain-free life. Whether you need acupuncture, injections, PEMF therapy, or physical therapy, we offer comprehensive care right here in Long Island.
You don’t have to live with constant pain. If you suspect piriformis syndrome, our team at Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine is here to help. We’ll develop a personalized treatment plan to relieve your symptoms and get you moving comfortably again. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and take the first step toward lasting relief.