Located deep in the buttock, below the gluteus maximus, the piriformis muscle extends from the sacrum to the outer hip bone and is responsible for stabilizing the hip joint and lifting and rotating the thighs away from the body. Often confused with sciatica because it produces a similar pain in the lower back and into the legs, piriformis syndrome is caused when the piriformis muscle becomes shortened or tightened or when the muscle spasms and becomes inflamed. When inflamed, the muscle can put pressure on the sciatic nerve that runs beneath it. If you are experiencing pain, tingling or numbness in your lower back, buttocks and legs, Dr. Christopher Brill can relive your pain and restore you to health in Newport News, VA.
A common factor that leads to the development of piriformis syndrome is the performance of activities with excessive weight bearing, changing direction and running. This means that many athletes, namely runners and weight lifters, suffer from this condition. Externally rotating the hip for extended periods of time is another factor. This is most often seen in ballet dancers and those who walk with their feet turned outward. Misalignment of the pelvis bones can also be involved.
At Therapeutic Solutions, LLC, we can use trigger point therapy, adjustment, stretching and strengthening exercises combined with inferential electo-therapy and electrical muscle stimulation to treat piriformis syndrome. These therapies reduce spasms and tightness and help the muscle heal. If your syndrome is caused by the way you walk, foot orthotics may be necessary.
For more information visit our website at www.therapeutic-solutions-llc.com or feel free to contact Dr. Brill & staff at 757-873-4131.
