It seems that there’s no end to aches, pains, and various syndromes in our bodies. The human back is particularly susceptible to aches and pains since our whole body hinges on our spine and spinal cord. Once you can put a name to the painful sensations that bother you, it’s time to start working on a treatment. Piriformis syndrome isn’t quite a household term, but it’s a more common condition than you might think.

So, what is piriformis syndrome? How can you tell if you have it? And how can you treat piriformis syndrome?

Piriformis syndrome is a neuromuscular disorder, which leads to hip or buttock discomfort that often extends to the leg. The condition is commonly caused by direct trauma to a specific muscle in the buttocks area called the piriformis muscle. Strenuous athletic training and prolonged sitting are some activities that can sore the piriformis muscle. The symptoms can be worse as the piriformis syndrome strikes, the sciatic nerve gets irritated or compressed resulting in a painful sensation that travels from the lower spine to the buttocks, then to the hind legs, and down to the nerves in the feet.

The piriformis muscle provides stabilization in the hip region that keeps the body in a standing position. It moves and rotates the thighs away from the body, which helps in walking and maintaining balance. While the sciatic nerve connects from the body to the brain carrying command and sensation signals. Since the muscle and nerve are next to each other, the piriformis muscle can constrict the sciatic nerves, causing numbness and pain to the lower body.

The piriformis muscle is a small muscle in the buttocks. Despite its size, it can cause varying degrees of pain and issues. Piriformis syndrome occurs when the sciatic nerve gets pinched or squeezed by the piriformis muscle. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower spine, through the buttocks, and down the legs. Unfortunately, when the piriformis muscle becomes tight or spasms, the sciatic nerve can quickly become irritated.

It’s often difficult to pinpoint the cause of piriformis syndrome. Overuse, injury to the piriformis muscle, or even simply sitting for too long can cause the piriformis muscle to contract or spasm. In turn, this presses on the sciatic nerve, leading to various symptoms.

The most common symptom of piriformis syndrome is a pain in the buttocks, which radiates down the buttock and leg. Sometimes, it can feel like a dull ache. Other symptoms may include numbness, tingling, and weakness. Additionally, piriformis syndrome usually affects only one side of the body.

If left untreated, piriformis syndrome can cause permanent nerve damage. This is why getting proper treatment is essential for this condition, and this can include chiropractic care.

Chiropractic treatment is one of the most efficient medical care to cure piriformis syndrome. The chiropractor helps adjust the muscles that need realignment within the lower spine and pelvis. The treatment not only relieves the pain but also remedies the tension that caused the piriformis syndrome.

The doctor first evaluates the spine and pelvis of the patient, which may consist of several examinations such as orthopedic, neurological, and functional tests. The examinations help the doctor determine the condition’s possible causes. After the straightforward diagnosis of the syndrome, the chiropractor begins the treatment. The patient is then instructed to perform strengthening exercises and massages to restore the function of the muscles and ease the compressions. Postural and ergonomic consultations are also provided by the doctor to prevent future muscle problems.

There are many risks in ignoring the pains and numbness of the body, so it is best to consult a chiropractor soon before it becomes a chronic and recurrent situation. Since the piriformis muscle is deep inside the buttock, reaching this muscle can be a little tricky. It further can cause additional problems for people whose job involves a lot of sitting, as the pain is often worse when sitting. On the other hand, too much exercise can also aggravate this muscle. So, what can you do?

With chiropractic care, you can get back to working your regular hours and enjoying your regular activities, without pain or other symptoms. A chiropractor works on the neuromusculoskeletal system, manipulating muscles, ligaments, and tendons. This means that a chiropractor can manipulate and realign the muscles in the legs, lower back, and hips. This realignment can help to alleviate the pain from piriformis syndrome and can smooth away the problems causing it in the first place.

This is because chiropractors know how to assess your muscles and joints and work out any weak areas. Posture issues, overuse, and muscle spasms can all increase your risk of developing piriformis syndrome, or maybe even sciatica later on. A good chiropractor will work alongside you to deal with these weak areas, relieve the pain from piriformis, re-align your body, and provide sciatic pain treatments.

If you suspect that you have piriformis syndrome or sciatica, book an appointment with your local chiropractor. Ultimate Medical Clinic can be your go-to Debary and New Smyrna Beach, chiropractor. Whether you’ve recently experienced an injury, nagging back or buttocks pain, or you simply want to ensure you achieve your highest state of health and wellness, we can help. Book your appointment today.

At Ultimate Medical Clinic, you’ll have access to effective and lasting chiropractic care and treatment. Schedule a consultation at Ultimate Medical Clinic.

Offices in Debary  386-668-6321 or New Smyrna Beach at 386-682-8869.