Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle, located in the buttock, compresses the sciatic nerve. This can cause pain or numbness in the buttock and down the back of the leg. The piriformis muscle is a small, flat muscle that connects the lower spine to the thigh. It helps with lower body movements. The sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body, typically runs underneath the piriformis muscle.

Piriformis syndrome is less common than sciatica and is specifically caused by the piriformis muscle pressing on the nerve.

Common causes of piriformis syndrome include:

• Inflammation or swelling in the piriformis muscle or surrounding tissues.
• Muscle spasms.
• Scar tissue formation.
• Overuse or injury to the muscle, such as from falls, repetitive motions, or poor posture.
• Aching, burning, numbness, or tingling in the buttock, hip, or upper leg.
• Pain that worsens with activities like sitting, walking, or climbing stairs.