PIRIFORMIS SYNDROME (gluteal pain with/without radiating pain)

 Piriformis syndrome is a condition in which the piriformis muscle (a small muscle located deep in the buttock) spasms and causes buttock pain. The piriformis muscle can also irritate the nearby sciatic nerve  and cause pain, numbness and tingling along the back of the leg and into the foot.

Causes of Piriformis Syndrome

• Muscle spasm in the piriformis muscle, either because of irritation in the piriformis muscle itself, or irritation of a nearby structure such as the sacroiliac joint or hip
• Tightening of the muscle, in response to injury or spasm
• Swelling of the piriformis muscle, due to injury or spasm
•  Bleeding in the area of the piriformis muscle.

Symptoms of Piriformis Syndrome

• acute tenderness in the buttock and sciatica-like pain down the back of the thigh, calf and foot. Typical piriformis syndrome symptoms may include:
• A dull ache in the buttock
• Pain down the back of the thigh, calf and foot (sciatica)
• Pain when walking upstairs or inclines
• Increased pain after prolonged sitting
• Reduced range of motion of the hip joint

Symptoms of piriformis syndrome often become worse after prolonged sitting, walking or running, and may feel better after lying down on the back.

Diagnosis and  Management will be provided in subsequent discussion.