14/04/2022
Piriformis syndrome is a condition in which the piriformis muscle, located in the buttock region, spasms and causes buttock pain. The piriformis muscle can also irritate the nearby sciatic nerve and cause pain, numbness and tingling along the back of the leg and into the foot (similar to sciatic pain).
Causes of Piriformis Syndrome
The exact causes of piriformis syndrome are unknown. Suspected causes include:
Muscle spasm in the piriformis muscle, either because of irritation in the piriformis muscle itself, or irritation of a nearby structure such as the sacroiliac joint or hip.
Tightening of the muscle, in response to injury or spasm.
Swelling of the piriformis muscle, due to injury or spasm.
Bleeding in the area of the piriformis muscle.
The non-invasive treatments include physical therapy, (osteopathic) manipulative treatment and lifestyle modification. The use of Ozone Therapy can be considered in the management of PS, due to the absence of side effects, the practicality of use and the extent of clinical improvement.
According to Tonley et al., the most commonly reported physical therapy interventions include ultrasound, soft tissue mobilization, piriformis stretching, hot packs or cold spray and various lumbar spine treatments.
