Understanding Piriformis Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes & Physiotherapy Solutions in Chennai
What is Piriformis Syndrome?
Piriformis Syndrome is a neuromuscular condition where the piriformis muscle, located in the buttock region, compresses the sciatic nerve. This causes buttock pain, hip discomfort, and sometimes radiating pain down the leg, mimicking sciatica. The condition is often linked to prolonged sitting, poor posture, muscle imbalances, or injuries.
Common Symptoms of Piriformis Syndrome
- ✔ Persistent pain in the buttocks or hip region
- ✔ Pain that worsens with sitting or climbing stairs
- ✔ Tingling or numbness down the leg
- ✔ Discomfort while walking or running
- ✔ Limited range of motion in the hip
Piriformis Syndrome vs Sciatica
Although symptoms appear similar, the root cause differs:
- Piriformis Syndrome: Compression of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle
- Sciatica: Caused by a spinal disc issue (like herniated disc)
A physiotherapist can help accurately diagnose the condition through clinical tests and movement assessment.
Effective Physiotherapy Solutions for Piriformis Syndrome
At Elite Advance Physiotherapy & Women’s Clinic, Chennai, we use scientific, evidence-based physiotherapy techniques such as:
- ✔ Manual Therapy – Gentle mobilization to reduce muscle tightness
- ✔ Myofascial Release – Relieves pressure on the sciatic nerve
- ✔ Trigger Point Therapy – Targets pain points in the piriformis muscle
- ✔ Dry Needling (if required) – Helps relax tight muscle fibers
- ✔ Stretching & Strengthening Exercises – Improves hip flexibility and core stability
Early physiotherapy can prevent chronic pain and restore pain-free movement.
Prevention Tips for Piriformis Syndrome
- ✔ Avoid prolonged sitting – Take breaks every 30-45 mins
- ✔ Stretch your hips daily
- ✔ Maintain proper posture
- ✔ Warm up before exercise
- ✔ Strengthen your glutes and core muscles
Elite Advance Physiotherapy – Your Trusted Pain Relief Partner in Chennai
📍 Address: 83, Medavakkam Main Rd, Arulmurugan Nagar Extention, Thiruvalluvar Nagar, Keelkattalai, Chennai – 600117
📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91 86103 11521
🌐 Website: eliteadvancephysiotherapy.com
FAQ: Piriformis Syndrome
It usually occurs due to prolonged sitting, muscle overuse, injury, or poor posture that tightens the piriformis muscle and compresses the sciatic nerve.
Piriformis Syndrome is muscle-related, while sciatica is nerve pain caused by a spinal issue like a herniated disc.
Yes, physiotherapy is the best solution. Techniques like manual therapy, stretching, and strengthening can relieve pain and prevent recurrence.
With consistent physiotherapy, most patients recover in 2–4 weeks, depending on the severity.
Absolutely! Regular hip stretches and core strengthening exercises significantly reduce the risk.