Piriformis Syndrome

Common Conditions
Written By Murray McAllister

Symptoms of piriformis syndrome are pain, numbness and/or tingling in the buttock. Sometimes, these symptoms can extend down the leg and into the foot.

Piriformnis syndrome is one of the causes of pain the leg. It's sometimes mistakenly diagnosed as sciatica.

Is there a cure for piriformis syndrome?

Piriformis syndrome can often be relieved with physical therapy, mild low-impact aerobic exercise such as in a warm water pool, and relaxation therapies. However, on occasion, it can become chronic. In chronic cases, chronic pain rehabilitation programs are likely the most beneficial treatment strategy.

 

Date of publication: April 27, 2012

Date of last modification: October 23, 2015

Murray McAllister

Murray J. McAllister, PsyD, is a pain psychologist, and the founder and editor of the Institute for Chronic Pain. He holds a Doctor of Psychology degree from Antioch University, New England, and a Master's degree in philosophy from the University of Oregon. He also consults to pain clinics and health systems on redesigning pain care delivery to make it more empirically supported and cost effective. Dr. McAllister is a frequent presenter to conferences and is a published author in peer reviewed journals. His current research interests are in the relationships between fear-avoidance, pain catastrophizing, and perceived disability.

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