Piriformis syndrome
Piriformis syndrome occurs when the Piriformis muscle
inflames and places pressure on the sciatic nerve as it runs from the sacrum
and into the leg.
The Piriformis muscle is a pear shaped muscle found in,
well, in the bum. It attaches to the sacrum and extends across, and under the
gluteus maximus, to the greater trochanter of the femur. The sciatic nerve
passes directly under this muscle as it leaves the sacrum and travels through
the buttocks and into the leg. The image shows the location of the Piriformis
and its attachment points, as well as the relative position of the sciatic
nerve. Therefore, if this muscle gets damaged or inflamed, it will press on the
sciatic nerve, causing pain in the buttocks and down the path of the sciatic
nerve, which is down the back of the leg. Pain down the back of your leg is
called sciatica.
The Piriformis has two functions, depending on what you are
doing with your legs at the time. If you are standing, Piriformis is used to
turn the entire leg outwards, pointing your toes to the side. If you are
sitting, then it is used to open your leg outwards.
How do you get Piriformis syndrome?
One of the most common causes is sitting at a desk, or
driving for long periods of time. This causes the muscles which bend the legs
at the hip (flexors) to shorten or become tense. As a compensatory measure, the
opposing muscles (the extensors) become tense too. The tension in the extensors
can cause the Piriformis to spasm, causing pain
Overusing the Piriformis muscle can cause it to become
damaged and tension will arise from this. Exercises like cycling, or other
seated sports like rowing, can cause damage by using the muscle to much, also
known as a muscle strain.
Another common cause of Piriformis syndrome arises from a
stiffening or looseness of the sacro-illiac joint. The sacro-illiac joint is a
joint between the sacrum and the ilium in the pelvis. This problem will be
discussed further in later articles.
Lower back problems can also cause Piriformis syndrome. This
is another compensatory reaction which occurs when the Piriformis tenses to
protect against pain in the lower back and decreased, or altered gait.
Do I need to worry?
Not with Piriformis syndrome no. It is a muscle imbalance
which can be corrected fairly easily with some deep tissue work and exercises.
Sciatica can, however, be caused by a herniated disc. This
will also be covered in later articles. If you are suffering from sciatica, you
should see an osteopath, physiotherapist or chiropractor for professional
treatment. Sciatica can be treated.
For more information on sciatica: http://www.jointsolutionsuk.com/index.php/sciatica/
Jacque Cilliers Adv Dip. MT. (MSM)
For appointments: 0845 4585 376
