Read “Is Piriformis Syndrome the Cause of My Sciatica?” by Dr. Amit Patel DC to learn more about Ipswich Spine Clinic and our practice in Ipswich, Suffolk.
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Are you suffering with leg pain that burns, aches, and radiates to your knee—or worse yet, down to your toes? The bad news is that it hurts tremendously, and you may feel exhausted from trying to “cure” the problem. The great news is that it may be a type of sciatica that is highly treatable by correcting the true cause—which is actually not located in your leg at all. So, if you’re ready to get rid of that “pain in the butt,” read on!
Tell Me More About Sciatica
Sciatica, or sciatic pain, is commonly referred to as pain that radiates from the buttock into the leg. There are many causes, but the most common is irritation of the spinal nerves in the lumbar spine. When nerve irritation is not coming from the spine but further down the leg, it can be difficult to recognize the difference.
One particular cause of sciatica is called piriformis syndrome. When the piriformis muscle—a small muscle that extends from the sacrum to the outer hip bone—compresses and irritates the sciatic nerve, it causes pain that radiates along the nerve from the buttocks into the back of the leg, often producing lower back pain. Piriformis syndrome can be painful, but it is seldom dangerous and rarely requires surgery. Most people can reduce the pain and learn to manage the problem effectively.
What Causes Piriformis Syndrome?
Piriformis syndrome may result from an overuse injury of the piriformis muscle or from direct trauma, such as a fall or blunt force injury.
Overuse is common in athletes like cyclists, rowers, and runners, or in anyone who repetitively engages in forward-moving activities. Fortunately, the condition can often be avoided with proper stretching and strengthening exercises, especially those that target lateral movement.
What Are the Symptoms?
Piriformis syndrome causes pain primarily along the sciatic nerve, often accompanied by tingling and numbness that may extend down to the knee. The pain radiates into the buttocks, thigh, and leg, and often worsens during everyday activities like walking or sitting for long periods. Tenderness may also be felt along the sciatic nerve.
The pain is usually one-sided, affecting the buttocks and leg, but it can also contribute to increased lower back pain.
How Is Piriformis Syndrome Differentiated from Sciatica?
It can be difficult to diagnose piriformis syndrome because its symptoms closely mimic sciatica. The key difference is that piriformis syndrome does not involve compression of the spinal nerves.
A medical professional will take a detailed history and perform a physical examination, including manual tests to see whether movement of the piriformis muscle triggers sciatic pain. Questions will focus on activity levels, aggravating and relieving factors, and specific pain patterns. If needed, imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, or EMGs may be used to rule out other causes.
What Are the Treatments for Piriformis Syndrome?
Treatment options may include:
- Rest and modification of aggravating activities
- Heat and cold therapy
- Physical therapy
- Stretching and core strengthening exercises
- Massage therapy
- Ultrasound therapy
- Gait correction and custom orthotics
All are designed to help the piriformis muscle relax and heal while reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve.
We Can Help!
If you are experiencing sciatic nerve pain, it’s important to consult with a professional to determine the true cause. Our team at Ipswich Spine Clinic are highly specialized in spinal health and body mechanics. We focus on rehabilitating and restoring your body to its optimal function.
To achieve our high success rate, we have built a state-of-the-art clinic with an expert team who provide individualized care tailored to your needs.
Have questions? Call today! Our team is ready to answer them and help you return to the quality of life you deserve—pain free.
For Your Health,
Dr. Amit Patel DC
An Optimal Spine Equals Optimal Health
Ipswich Spine Clinic
Neale Chambers, 6-8 Neale Street,
Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 3JB
Phone: 01473 232 002