The piriformis is a muscle in the buttocks which rotates the leg outwards. The sciatic nerve usually runs under the piriformis. However as much of ¼ of the population’s sciatic nerves run through the piriformis muscle. These people are more likely to have piriformis syndrome. Tightness or spasms in this muscle can compress the sciatic nerve causing sciatica.
Symptoms of pain, numbness, or tingling can come on suddenly or gradually over time. Causes could include a fall on the buttocks, sitting on the edge of a hard surface, walking long distances, or a new exercise routine. Sometimes the cause is unknown.
Symptoms start in the buttocks and can radiate down the leg and into the foot. Walking, running, climbing stairs, and sitting or standing for longer than 15 minutes may increase symptoms.
Ice, stretching, soft tissue release, and chiropractic can help relieve sciatica caused by piriformis syndrome.