What is Piriformis Syndrome?
Piriformis syndrome is a condition that occurs with inflammation of the piriformis muscle located in the pelvic area. Piriformis syndrome also occurs when the piriformis muscle applies pressure on the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is most often located under the piriformis muscle. It is a syndrome resulting from trauma to the piriformis muscle and compression of the sciatic nerve.
Causes of Piriformis Syndrome
The causes of piriformis syndrome are generally due to conditions that put pressure on the sciatic nerve. Some conditions that cause piriformis syndrome are as follows:
- Trauma
- Falls
- Events such as traffic accidents
- Sudden movements
- Intense exercise
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Spinal curvature
- Heavy lifting
- Hip surgeries
Symptoms of Piriformis Syndrome
Symptoms of piriformis syndrome are generally seen in the hip and upper leg areas. Some symptoms of piriformis syndrome include:
- Increased pain when sitting, lying down, and standing
- Difficulty sitting
- Difficulty walking
- Weakness in the legs
- Limping
- Pain that increases during rest and decreases with movement
- Hip pain
- Numbness
- Limited movement
- Difficulty climbing stairs
- A feeling of tightness in the legs
- Loss of strength in the leg muscles over time
There are two types of piriformis syndrome. In primary piriformis syndrome, there are anatomical abnormalities and the piriformis muscle is incompatible with the nerve. In secondary piriformis syndrome, it develops due to trauma. It is caused by accidents, injuries, lifestyle, and disorders.
Diagnostic Criteria for Piriformis Syndrome
There is no specific diagnostic method for piriformis syndrome. It is diagnosed through the patient's history and physical examination. Piriformis symptoms can be confused with other diseases. Therefore, although it is difficult to diagnose, an expert physician can diagnose based on symptoms and findings.
Detailed examination is provided by some imaging methods. These include:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- Ultrasound
- Electromyography (EMG)
Treatment Methods for Piriformis Syndrome
In the treatment of piriformis syndrome, different treatment plans are made depending on the patient's condition and the severity of the disease.
- Use of painkillers and muscle relaxants
- Cold application if there is swelling
- Stretching exercises
- Rest
- Strengthening exercises
- Physical therapy
- Steroid injection
- Corticosteroid injection
- Regular walking
- Healthy and balanced diet
- Avoiding prolonged sitting
- Avoiding prolonged inactivity
Exercises for Piriformis Syndrome
Exercise is an important method in the treatment of piriformis syndrome. Exercises planned by an expert physician to work the piriformis muscle should be performed regularly. The patient should avoid prolonged inactivity and take regular light-paced walks. Home exercises are given to those at home to perform regularly. Flexibility in the muscle is increased to reduce the pressure of the piriformis muscle on the sciatic nerve, providing relief.
Recovery Process of Piriformis Syndrome
The recovery process of piriformis syndrome can vary from person to person and can differ depending on the severity of the disease. Regular exercise, lifestyle changes, a balanced diet, use of prescribed medications, and following the treatment plan can speed up the recovery process. People with piriformis syndrome should avoid prolonged sitting; therefore, frequent breaks should be taken while driving and movement is recommended.
