Piriformis Syndrome
Pyriformis is a muscle which is present in the Gluteal region Starting at the lower spine and connecting to the upper surface of each femur (thighbone). Its main function is to assist in rotating the hip and turning the leg and foot outward. It runs diagonally, with the sciatic nerve running vertically directly beneath it (although in some people the nerve can run through the muscle)
Signs and Symptoms:
- Continuous or Intermittent dull aching type of Pain in the Buttocks
- Radiating pain in the lower limbs which may be associated with tingling , numbness , burning or weakness ( Sciatica) due to irritation/compression on sciatic nerve
- Pain on adduction and internal rotation of the hip
- Tenderness in the centre of the buttocks
- Difficulty in sitting and patients may shift weight to other side to avoid pain
Risk Factors:
- Trauma involving the muscle like falling on the buttocks causing muscle spasm or swelling
- Prolonged sitting like in IT professionals or drivers
- Repetitive use of muscle like in running
JEEVISHA protocol for management Piriformis syndrome:
Conservative management strategies includes
- Work ergonomics correction: Changing the Ergonomics at work place plays a very important role in management of these patients. Expert faculty at JEEVISHA analysis the problems and helps the patient bring changes in their daily life.
- Posture correction: With facilities like Posture Analysis machine, the root cause for the development of these painful conditions is identified and patient are trained to overcome this problem in a step wise manner.
- Medications: In the initial course of the management of this condition, patients may be prescribed some Muscle relaxants. Some other medications may be prescribed depending on the condition of the patient, which is individualized from patient to patient basis.
- Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy plays a very important role in fighting these painful conditions. With a team of dedicated physiotherapist, patient is further evaluated and accordingly a plan is prepared for first reducing pain and then focusing on strengthening of the piriformis muscle.
Targeted treatment
If conservative treatment fails, various Non invasive interventions done for this condition are:
- Ultrasound guided injections in the Piriformis muscle to reduce inflammation and spasm
- Ultrasound guided Botox injections in the Piriformis muscle