Piriformis Syndrome

 Our legs and lower backs are connected, and a problem in one could result in a problem in the other. One of the muscles that connects the top of the femur to the lumbar spine is the piriformis muscle, and when it’s tight, pain may radiate from the lower back. Even worse, piriformis syndrome, as it's known, may cause sciatica. At the Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, we’re able to treat piriformis syndrome without drugs or surgery, so we want everyone to understand more about why they should seek chiropractic treatment.

The piriformis muscles are deep within the pelvic region. There is one on each side, and they help to rotate the leg outward. The sciatic nerve of each leg runs through, around, or on either side of its respective piriformis muscle, which is why swelling in the piriformis muscle could compress the nerve. This would result in tingling, numbness, or painful shocks along its length. The piriformis muscle may be compressed due to inflammation of the sacroiliac joint (where the lumbar spine connects to the pelvis), or because it has suffered an acute injury or become worn with overuse. Piriformis syndrome without sciatica would usually feel more like a dull ache.

A diagnosis of piriformis syndrome would usually be made through process of elimination, although it may not be the only thing contributing to a patient’s pain. Treatments are based on stretching the piriformis muscle and increasing its strength. This would be done through therapeutic exercises and soft tissue therapies such as low-level laser and electric muscle stimulation. We can also use chiropractic adjustments to treat the lower back for any subluxations it may have incurred due to the piriformis muscle’s tightness.

Dr. Jay McClanahan is the owner and chiropractor of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center. Our office is located in Nitro, WV. To schedule an appointment with Dr. McClanahan visit our website or call 304-776-1520.