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Treatment for Piriformis Syndrome in Zaragoza
At FisioSentis we tackle Piriformis Syndrome in Zaragoza with physiotherapy treatment. Book your appointment now!
Do you have deep pain in one buttock that sometimes radiates down the back of the leg, but you’ve been told it isn’t sciatica?
It may well be Piriformis Syndrome, also known as pseudo-sciatica or piriformis muscle syndrome. Although it’s often confused with a lumbar radiculopathy, this syndrome has its own features and a very effective treatment through physiotherapy. At FisioSentis we explain in depth what it is, why it happens, how it’s diagnosed and, above all, how we treat it effectively.
What is Piriformis Syndrome?
Piriformis Syndrome is a musculoskeletal condition that occurs when the piriformis muscle compresses or irritates the sciatic nerve, causing buttock pain that can radiate down the leg.
The piriformis muscle is a deep hip muscle that runs from the sacrum to the femur. The sciatic nerve passes beneath it, or sometimes even through it. If this muscle is tight, inflamed or shortened, it can put pressure on the nerve and generate symptoms similar to sciatica, even though the origin isn’t in the spine.
Why does Piriformis Syndrome happen?
From a physiotherapy point of view, the most common causes are:
- Muscle overload from repetitive activities such as running, climbing stairs or driving for long periods.
- Postural imbalances (rotated pelvis, leg-length discrepancy, lumbar hyperlordosis…).
- Trauma or falls on the buttock.
- A sedentary lifestyle and holding the same seated posture for long periods.
- Compensations after hip, knee or spine injuries.
- Lack of mobility or lumbopelvic control.
Symptoms and diagnosis of Piriformis Syndrome
Typical symptoms
- Deep pain, localised in the buttock area, which can radiate to the back of the thigh.
- Pain that increases when sitting for a long time.
- Discomfort when crossing your legs or climbing stairs.
- Pain when applying direct pressure on the buttock.
- Absence of clear neurological signs in the leg or foot (unlike true sciatica).
Assessment from physiotherapy
- At FisioSentis we assess:
A detailed clinical history. - Physical examination: mobility of the hip, pelvis and lower back.
- Palpation of the piriformis muscle.
- Orthopaedic tests such as Freiberg’s test, Pace’s test and the FAIR test (Flexion, Adduction and Internal Rotation).
- Postural assessment and movement pattern.
In some cases it can be supplemented with an MRI or ultrasound to rule out disc herniations or joint pathologies.
Treatment from physiotherapy
Treatment goals
- Reduce pain and compression on the sciatic nerve.
- Release the piriformis muscle and associated musculature.
- Correct postural imbalances and improve neuromuscular control.
- Re-educate functional movement.
Techniques and tools
- Manual therapy: deep massage, myofascial release, muscle energy techniques.
- Dry needling of the piriformis if there are active trigger points.
- Specific stretches of the piriformis and deep glutes.
- Progressive therapeutic exercise: gluteus medius strengthening, lumbopelvic control, hip mobility.
- Neuromeningeal mobilisations of the sciatic nerve.
- Postural re-education and motor control.
- Relaxation techniques or diaphragmatic breathing to reduce overall tension.
Benefits of physiotherapy treatment
- Reduced pain without the need for medication.
- Improved hip and pelvis mobility.
- Restored muscle balance.
- Recovery of function without resorting to surgery.
- Education to prevent relapses.
Recommended exercises
These exercises should be supervised by a physiotherapist.
Lying piriformis stretch
Lie on your back, bend one leg, cross it over the other and pull gently towards your chest.
Internal-rotation stretch
On all fours, cross one leg in front of your body and sit back on your heel, similar to the yoga “pigeon” pose.
Gluteus medius strengthening
Side-lying leg raises with a resistance band.
Lumbopelvic control
Glute bridge, abdominal plank, pelvic stability exercises.
Tips and prevention for Piriformis Syndrome
- Avoid sitting for a long time without breaks.
- Alternate the load between both legs when standing.
- Add stretches to your daily routine.
- Strengthen your gluteal and abdominal muscles.
- Correct postural imbalances with the help of a physiotherapist.
- Use ergonomic cushions if you spend many hours sitting.
Frequently asked questions about Piriformis Syndrome
How do I tell it apart from true sciatica?
In piriformis syndrome there are no distal neurological changes (reflexes, strength, sensation) and it usually hurts when pressing on the buttock.
Can I keep exercising?
Yes, but it should be adapted. Mobility work and controlled strengthening are prioritised.
How long does it take to improve?
With appropriate treatment, there can be significant improvement in 3-6 weeks. Chronic cases may take longer.
Can it be fully cured?
Yes, with a global approach, postural education and therapeutic exercise, it can be completely eliminated.
Piriformis Syndrome can easily be confused with other conditions, but it has a very effective physiotherapy treatment. The key lies in a proper assessment, a global and active intervention, and personalised follow-up. Don’t ignore buttock pain: with specialised physiotherapy, you can recover your wellbeing without resorting to invasive methods. Ask at FisioSentis!
