What can be done for Piriformis Syndrome?

Question

have been in pain for 5 months now and although MRI showed up various problems with the spine, none of these are allegedly responsible for the pain.
Hence th GP's suggestion that it is the piriformis which is the problem

Answer 1

Unfortunately, the treatment of piriformis syndrome is quite general, and often this is a difficult problem to recover from. Some treatment suggestions are:

Physical Therapy - Emphasis on stretching and strengthening the hip rotator muscles
Rest - Avoid the activities that cause symptoms for at least a few weeks
Anti-Inflammatory Medication - To decrease inflammation around the tendon
Deep Massage - Advocated by some physicians
On some occasions, when these treatment fail, patients have surgery to release, or loosen, the piriformis muscle tendon. This surgery is not a small procedure, and generally considered the last resort if a lengthy period of conservative treatment does not solve the problem.

Answer 2

Piriformis Syndrome is a relatively rare neuromuscular disorder.

Treatment is based on stretching, modalities, and physio rehab therapy. Exercise like running, bicycle riding etc should be stopped until condition is controlled. Anti- inflammatory medications are frequently used. Steroid injections are also used.

Any surgical thearpy would be a last resort and should be avoided as the post surgical scarring of the priformis could make the problem worse.

Work with you GP, and if not improving request referral to an orthopaedist, physical medicine or pain medicine specialist.

Answer 3

I found many interesting info about sciatica here: http://curesciatica.toptips.org


While looking for a miracle cure, it has to be understood that sciatica pain in itself is not a disease. It is actually a symptom or a group of symptoms with an underlying cause that needs to be targeted if some sort of permanent pain relief is what one is looking for. But one thing is absolutely clear. Incorporating a few exercises that have a beneficial effect on sciatica pain in daily regime is of great help and whether a patient is taking drugs or not, these exercises ensure that his muscles are kept in a toned condition that lessen any flare up of pain. Just a few stretching exercises can bring about a drastic change in the levels of pain and signify the importance of exercise in the management of sciatica pain.
Cheers ;)

Answer 4

roger, jackie's answer is right on the money, with only one addition. Yoga aimed at the relief of back pain has worked for people with Piriformis Syndrome. If you try it, watch your form very carefully.

Answer 5

I've used neuromuscular therapy of a few clients I've had diagnosed with Piriformis Syndrome.
http://www.a-body-for-living.com/neuromuscular-therapy-melbourne.html

Some times it works, but you need to be prepared for the discomfort of someone trying to firmly press their elbow into your buttocks.