The piriformis muscle is imperative for lower body movement because it helps stabilize, lift and rotate the thigh. This muscle also helps people shift their weight, maintain balance and rotate the thighs. Although rare, the piriformis muscle may compress the sciatic nerve, a long nerve that runs along the spine, and cause chronic, debilitating pain. Most often this compression occurs from a spasm of the piriformis muscle. Nevertheless, patients typically experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Pain, tingling or numbness in the buttocks
- Pain that extends down the length of the sciatic nerve
- Pain or discomfort from climbing stairs or sitting for an extended period of time
Piriformis syndrome is usually diagnosed after the physician has had time to review the patient’s medical history and administer a thorough physical exam. A patient’s report of his or her symptoms will also help physicians determine a piriformis syndrome diagnosis. MRIs and other imaging tests may be required to rule out other causes of sciatic nerve compression.
Treatment for this piriformis syndrome may include conservative therapies such as rest, ice, or heat. Physical therapy or manual manipulation may also be suggested to help with movement and reduce sciatic nerve compression. If conservative therapies do not provide the patient adequate pain relief, a pain management physician may recommend interventional pain treatments.
Corticosteroid injections with an anesthetic generally produce several weeks, if not months, of pain relief for patients with piriformis. These injections are usually injected into trigger points with or without the help of an ultrasound, MRI or CT scan. Severe cases of piriformis syndrome may require surgical intervention. Talk to your Tulsa Pain physician about treatment options for your piriformis syndrome.
Highlights:
- Piriformis syndrome is a rare neuromuscular disorder that causes pain from the piriformis muscle compressing the sciatic nerve.
- The piriformis muscle is located in the buttocks near the top of the hip joint.
- The pain management physicians at Tulsa Pain discuss treatment options for individuals with piriformis syndrome.
Tulsa Pain is a pain management practice in Oklahoma that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. We are dedicated to helping those who are suffering find the relief they deserve. Our team uses a balanced approach by incorporating minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, complementary and alternative medicine, and medication to help patients take control of their pain. Call 918-742-7030 or click here to Request an Appointment to meet with one of our talented pain management specialists today!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
