Piriformis Syndrome – Treatment Options that Relieve Hip Pain

Do you have pain and stiffness in the hip region and lower back? Have you been struggling with pain for weeks, months or years? This could be Piriformis Syndrome. If you are experiencing pain in your hip or lower back, it is important to see a doctor to rule out other potential causes.

Once a diagnosis of Piriformis Syndrome is made, Peak Performance Sports Therapy has several non-surgical treatment options that can help to:

• provide relief from hip pain
• improve range of motion and flexibility
• relax the muscle
• reduce pain

In order to effectively treat this condition, it is important to understand the causes and symptoms of Piriformis Syndrome. Additionally, there are a number of treatment options available that can provide relief.

What is Piriformis Syndrome?

Piriformis syndrome is a condition that is caused by tightness or spasm in the piriformis muscle, which runs from the top of the femur (your thigh bone) to the sacrum (the triangular bone at the bottom of your spine). Piriformis syndrome is a condition that affects many people, causing pain and stiffness in the hip region and lower back. While the exact incidence of piriformis syndrome is unknown, it is estimated that up to 6% of the population may be affected. It is more common in women than men, and typically affects people between the ages of 30 and 50.

What causes Piriformis Syndrome?

There are a number of risk factors for developing piriformis syndrome, including

• anatomical abnormalities in the hip joint
• tightness in the hip muscles
• poor flexibility
• repetitive movements

People who participate in activities that require frequent hip rotation are also at increased risk. For instance, running and cycling may increase your risk of developing this condition. The best way to prevent piriformis syndrome is to be aware of these risk factors and take steps to reduce your risk.

How Can I Relieve My Piriformis Syndrome Pain?

Common treatment options for piriformis syndrome include:

• Physical therapy
• Shock Wave Treatment
• Massage therapy
• Stretching exercises

The most effective treatment for piriformis syndrome will vary depending on the individual. At Peak Performance Sports Therapy, we can get you on the road to recover quickly by providing an individualized treatment and education package including all of these areas.

Stretching the Piriformis

Stretching exercises and Physical Therapy can help to improve flexibility and range of motion in the hips and lower back, which can help to reduce pain and spasm in the affected muscles. Stretching exercises are also important in helping to prevent the recurrence of symptoms. Some effective stretching exercises that can be used to treat piriformis syndrome include lunges, hamstring stretches, calf raises, and glute bridges. Our physical therapist can guide you through these stretches.

Massage Therapy for Piriformis Syndrome

Massage therapy can help to relax the muscle and reduce pain. More specifically, PPST therapists are trained in NeuroMuscular Therapy (NMT). NMT is a highly effective technique which eliminates pain caused by muscle overuse, strain and trauma, regardless of when the injury occurred. NMT focuses on trigger points-–tight spots in the muscle which are considered the source of up to 75 percent of the daily aches and pains people experience.

Shock Wave Therapy targeting the Piriformis

Radial Shock Wave Therapy is a proprietary technology based on a unique set of pressure waves that stimulate the metabolism, enhance blood circulation and accelerate the healing process. Focused Shock Wave is an acoustic pulse (or sound wave) that is transmitted into the tissue. Damaged tissue that has experienced Focused Shock Wave gradually regenerates and eventually heals. This non-invasive office/clinic based procedure represents a breakthrough treatment option for a broad range of musculoskeletal conditions.

Radial Shock Wave, Focused Shock Wave, and Extracorporeal Magnetotransduction Treatment (EMTT®) represent PPST’s Triad of Regenerative Healing offered only at PPST in Cincinnati.

Piriformis syndrome is a common condition characterized by pain and stiffness in the hip region, lower back, and buttock. With proper treatment—physical therapy, massage therapy, shock wave therapy, stretching—most people will experience significant improvement in their symptoms. If you are suffering from piriformis syndrome or think you may be at risk for developing this condition, contact Peak Performance Sports Therapy today about the best course of treatment for you.

Schedule an Appointment

If you are looking for treatment options for Piriformis Syndrome, please schedule an appointment with us through our online booking system. Our goal is to see clients for an initial visit as soon as possible, so we can get started on your treatment plan right away.