Piriformis syndrome is due to impingement of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle. Improper gait or incorrect form contributes to inflexibility and tightness in the piriformis. The condition is more common in women than in men (6:1). When the piriformis muscle gets tight it puts pressure on the nerve that causes pain very similar to sciatica. The pain radiates down the back of the thigh from the middle gluteal region.
Cause of injury
Incorrect gait or form when walking or running. Tight adductor muscles or weakness in gluteal muscles.
Piriformis syndrome symptoms
Pain walking up an incline or when climbing stairs. Pain along the sciatic nerve. Pain after long sitting.
Complications if left unattended
If left untreated, the chronic pain will result. The tight muscle may cause stress on the tendons and points of attachment.
Piriformis syndrome treatment
RICER. Anti-inflammatory medication and diet. Sports massage is very beneficial for piriformis syndrome to encourage blood circulation and healing. Application of heat.
Piriformis syndrome rehabilitation and prevention
During rehabilitation, stretching of the hip muscles and a gradual return to activity is vital. Start with a lower duration or exercise intensity. Finding out what caused the problem is very important. Increasing the flexibility of the adductors and strengthening the gluteal muscles. It will help to alleviate some of the tension and prevent the piriformis from getting tight. Keeping a scheduled regimen to keep the piriformis muscle flexible will help while dealing with other problems.
Long-term prognosis
When piriformis syndrome is treated properly it does not lead to long-term problems. Rarely, an invasive method or a corticosteroid injection could be required to relieve symptoms.
Piriformis syndrome treatment – Sports massage in Watford
A piriformis syndrome massage in Watford concentrates on the gluteus muscles. The group of gluteal muscles includes the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, gluteus minimus and the tensor fasciae latae. A gluteal massage uses a variety of techniques like STR or MET to help release muscle tightness and tension. A piriformis syndrome massage aims to release muscle tightness and reduce pain. Our sports massage therapist at Lucas Massage Therapy in Watford uses piriformis syndrome massage to help reduce pain, tension and tightness of the muscles.
Experience the joy of moving freely again
Sports Massage Watford to help you feel better, move better & be pain-free
Benefits of Piriformis Syndrome Massage Watford
Relaxes and Eases Tight Muscles
Sports Massage therapy will help to relax and ease muscle tension. Releasing the lumbar, quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and the piriformis. Soft tissue release will help to remove adhesions and scar tissue.
Improves Range of Movement
With the easing of affected muscles and reduced pain, patients will find that their range of motion and activity levels are improved.