Currency

Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis Syndrome

 

 

Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis syndrome occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed by the piriformis muscle.  It is a neuromuscular disorder which is relatively uncommon.

It is usually characterised by pain, numbness or tingling in the buttocks region. There may be a dull ache or tenderness too. In some cases the pain can be extreme and refer down the length of the sciatic nerve and into the leg (also known as sciatica).  Pain can be triggered when climbing the stairs, lifting heavy objects, sitting for long periods of time or even running.

There is no single test for this condition.  It is often the case that there has been a history of trauma, perhaps from vigorous and repetitive activities such a long distance running.  In order to diagnose piriformis syndrome, a physical exam would be necessary alongside the patient's description of the symptoms.  In some cases it may be necessary to get an MRI to rule out other conditions such as a herniated disc.

 

Treating Piriformis Syndrome and Sciatic Pain

 

Treating the Trigger Points in the Piriformis with Dry Needling - Paul Townley

 

 

It is usually recommended to avoid the positions or movements that cause or trigger the pain.  It is important to use the correct equipment when doing physical activities or sports. Symptoms can be relieved with the help of rest, ice and heat alongside exercise and stretches to relieve the compression on the sciatic nerve. It is also important to make sure your posture is correct and you sit upright and not slumped.

Myofascial Expert Online course
accredited continuing education

Myofascial Expert

$99.95

Dry Needling for Trigger Point Release
accredited continuing education

IMS/Trigger Point Dry Needling

$179.95

Pregnancy Massage Online Course
accredited continuing education

Pregnancy Massage

$59.95

Massage Cupping Course
accredited continuing education

Massage Cupping Diploma

$295.00

1 / 4
trusted by
NAT Global Campus

The Gold Standard in Continuing Education and Online Training

300+ COURSES INCLUDE

Massage Therapy, Sports Massage, Strength and Conditioning, Stretching, Mobilisation and Manipulation, Cranio-Sacral Therapy, IMS Dry Needling, Acupuncture, Acupressure, Trigger Point Therapy, IASTM, Resistance Training, Bowen Therapy, Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, Podiatry, Oncology Massage, Sports Nutrition, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Somatic Therapy, Prenatal Bodywork and Massage, Anatomy, Biomechanics, Clinical Reasoning, Pilates, and Yoga.

Multi-column

Continuing Education

Great courses at inflation-busting prices. You won't find better value anywhere.

NAT Diploma Courses

NAT Self-Paced Diploma courses are designed to help you boost your career.

Membership

Get unlimited access to all online CE/CPD courses, live events, webinars and more.

CE CPD Accredited Courses Massage Physical Therapy Chiropractic
CE Accredited Courses NAT Global Campus