What is Piriformis Syndrome?

Many of our clients have come to see us to help alleviate pain or a dull ache in the Glute region (more commonly known as your backside). This is a common site for pain and massage can definitely help. The Piriformis muscle is located deep to the Gluteus Maximus muscle and is attached to the sacrum and head of the femur. It’s action is to aid external or lateral

rotation of the thigh. The Piriformis is the

horizontal muscle in the middle of the diagram

that run across the Sciatic nerve (in yellow).
Here in lies the problem; when the
Piriformis muscle gets tight or spasms it
can irritate the Sciatic nerve which can even
lead to pain down the leg.

So what causes the muscle to shorten or get tight?

According to The Stretching Institute there are two main areas: Overload (training errors) or Biomechanical Inefficiencies.

Overload

Exercising on hard surface (ie: concrete)

Exercising on uneven ground

Beginning an exercise program after a long rest period or increasing intensity too soon

Exercising in worn out or ill fitting shoes

Sitting for long periods of time

Biomechanical Inefficiencies

Poor running or walking habits (including your toes pointing out)

Poor seated posture

Tight and stiff muscles of the lumbar, hips and buttocks

Other causes can include herniated disc and spinal stenosis issues

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment can include Rest and Ice in early onset of pain and then soft tissue therapy including massage, acupuncture, heat and stretching can all assist your recovery. Massage assists the muscle to return to normal resting length which should then stop the irritation of the Sciatic nerve. Massage can also relieve Trigger Points that may have formed in the area due to poor biomechanics.

Prevention includes rest and recovery to prevent a reoccurrence, then ease back into training sessions while concentrating on strength and conditioning of core muscles, hip and lower back. Flexibility and suppleness of surrounding muscles as well as Piriformis are crucial.

Reminder to All: Cancellation Policy

As it is the season for colds, work deadlines, and winter escapes please ensure you give us plenty of notice if you can’t make your appointment, remember we are a business too!

We need at least 12 hours notice of a cancellation or reschedule, if no notice is given we will have to charge you the cost of the session, if late notice is given a fee will be charged. Lateness will cut into your treatment time.

We appreciate your understanding.

Goodbye and Good Luck!
It is with sadness that we farewell Emma Harper (now Dowling, congrats on getting married!!) as she is off with new hubby to Dubai. Her last day at Balance Massage will be 17th July. We will miss you!!!