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Piriformis syndrome


Other Names:
Hip socket neuropathy; Pseudosciatica; Wallet sciatica; Hip socket neuropathy; Pseudosciatica; Wallet sciatica; Deep gluteal syndrome; Pyriformis syndrome See More
Categories:
Piriformis syndrome is a rare neuromuscular condition that occurs when the piriformis muscle in the buttocks presses on the sciatic nerve. The condition is primarily associated with sciatica; however, other symptoms may include tenderness, aching, tingling and/or numbness of the buttock and pain when sitting for a long period of time, climbing stairs, walking or running. Piriformis syndrome is caused by damage, irritation or overuse of the piriformis muscle which can make the muscle swell or tighten. This puts pressure on the nerve beneath it (the sciatic nerve) which leads to the signs and symptoms of the condition. In many cases, medical treatment may not be needed and home remedies (such as avoiding activities that trigger pain, over-the-counter pain medications, ice packs, heating pads, and stretching exercises) can help alleviate symptoms. In more severe cases, muscle relaxants, electrotherapy, or even surgery may be recommended.[1][2][3]
Last updated: 3/21/2017

These resources provide more information about this condition or associated symptoms. The in-depth resources contain medical and scientific language that may be hard to understand. You may want to review these resources with a medical professional.

Where to Start

In-Depth Information

  • Medscape Reference provides information on this topic. You may need to register to view the medical textbook, but registration is free.
  • The Monarch Initiative brings together data about this condition from humans and other species to help physicians and biomedical researchers. Monarch’s tools are designed to make it easier to compare the signs and symptoms (phenotypes) of different diseases and discover common features. This initiative is a collaboration between several academic institutions across the world and is funded by the National Institutes of Health. Visit the website to explore the biology of this condition.
  • PubMed is a searchable database of medical literature and lists journal articles that discuss Piriformis syndrome. Click on the link to view a sample search on this topic.

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  1. Piriformis syndrome. MedlinePlus. November 2014; https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000776.htm.
  2. Shishir Shah, DO. Piriformis Syndrome. Medscape Reference. January 2017; http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/87545-overview.
  3. Piriformis Syndrome Information Page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/all-disorders/piriformis-syndrome-information-page. Accessed 3/21/2017.