PIRIFORMIS SYNDROME SUPPORT GROUP

This is a forum/support group for people who have Piriformis Syndrome (PS). The piriformis muscle contracts, pinching the sciatic nerve causing "pain in the butt", hip pain, &/or sciatica (referred leg pain). Scar tissue w/i muscle may press on nerve.

Symptoms include:

1- Piriformis muscle spasm or tightness

2-Pain in the butt. Often distinct points of pain are found
-where the Piriformis muscle attaches to the sacrum,
-where the Piriformis muscle attaches to the hip,
-or mid-prirformis muscle

3-(Pseudo) Sciatica/referred leg pain (usually down the
back of the leg). This symptom isn't always present.

SI Joint Dysfunction (Sacroiliac) is often associated Piriformis Syndrome.

Pain is made worse by sitting, climbing stairs, squatting, long drives, walks or runs.

PS can be caused by many different things including: OVERUSE (i.e.,running, dancing), TRAUMA (e.g. falling on the butt), PELVIC MISALIGNMENT, (either natural occurring or L5-S1 fusion induced), PREGNANCY, or faulty FOOT MECHANICS, etc. Atypical anatomy of the sciatic nerve running through the muscle may also predispose one to developing PS.

PS can be difficult to diagnose as it has many of the same symptoms as disk problems. Physiatrists (Dr. of Physical Med & Rehab) are most familair w/ PS. They diagnose it through manual exams of stretching & resistance. MR neurography is better than a regular MRI in Dx'g PS.

Runners often improve w/ PT. Difficult cases may require other treatments, which range from soft tissue bodywork to surgery.

If you suspect PS, ask a doctor, chiro, or PT if your Piriformis is contracted. IF THE PIRIFORMIS MUSCLE IS NOT IN SPASM, you do NOT have PS.

When you join this group, tell us in the application if you have been diagnosed.

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