Piriformis Syndrome

The Piriformis is a small muscle located in the pelvis near the hip joint which helps to stabilise the hip and help with weight transfer during walking and exercise. If there is overuse of the muscle it can spasm and cause compression of the sciatic nerve which runs close to the muscle. This can cause local symptoms in the buttock or down the back of the leg.

Diagnosis is made on clinical history and a range of clinical tests. The condition is generally due to altered / poor function and management requires a targeted rehabilitation programme and help with reduction of the spasm.

If this is a chronic or recurrent programme then a detail 3D gait analysis can help to identify the contributing factors. In some cases, where there is altered function of the foot, orthotics may be of benefit.