Piriformis Syndrome

Lawrence, KS | Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic

Piriformis syndrome is a condition that occurs when the piriformis muscle, located deep within the buttock, irritates or compresses the sciatic nerve. This can lead to pain in the buttock that may radiate down the back of the leg, often mimicking sciatica caused by a lumbar disc herniation.

At Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic, we provide evidence-based, conservative treatment to reduce pain, improve hip mobility, and relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve without surgery whenever appropriate.

How We Treat Piriformis Syndrome

Every treatment plan is individualized based on your symptoms, movement patterns, and examination findings. Depending on your condition, treatment may include:

• Chiropractic adjustments to improve movement of the lumbar spine, pelvis, and hip

• Manual therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve soft tissue mobility

• Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) to promote healing, decrease chronic muscle pain, and improve tissue function

• Dry needling to release trigger points within the piriformis and surrounding hip muscles

• Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) to improve tissue mobility and reduce muscular restrictions

• Corrective exercises to improve hip mobility, glute strength, and pelvic stability

• Personalized home stretching and strengthening program to reduce symptom recurrence

Our goal is to decrease irritation of the sciatic nerve while restoring normal movement and improving overall hip function.

Symptoms of Piriformis Syndrome

Common symptoms include:

• Pain deep in the buttock

• Pain that radiates down the back of the leg

• Numbness or tingling into the leg

• Pain while sitting for prolonged periods

• Pain with running, walking, or climbing stairs

• Tenderness over the piriformis muscle

• Reduced hip mobility

Because these symptoms can resemble lumbar radiculopathy (sciatica), a thorough evaluation is important to determine the true source of your pain.

What Causes Piriformis Syndrome?

Piriformis syndrome may develop due to:

• Overuse from running or other repetitive activities

• Prolonged sitting

• Muscle tightness

• Hip weakness

• Pelvic or hip dysfunction

• Trauma or falls

• Altered movement mechanics

Addressing these contributing factors is essential for long-term recovery.

What to Expect During Your First Visit

Your initial evaluation at Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic is designed to identify the source of your pain and determine whether piriformis syndrome is contributing to your symptoms.

Your visit may include:

• Detailed health history and symptom review

• Orthopedic and neurological examination

• Hip and lumbar spine assessment

• Functional movement evaluation

• Strength and flexibility testing

• Personalized treatment recommendations

If imaging or referral is indicated, we will help coordinate the next step in your care.

Why Choose Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic?

Our chiropractors take a comprehensive approach to treating piriformis syndrome by identifying the underlying mechanical causes of your symptoms—not just where the pain is located. Your care may include chiropractic adjustments, manual therapy, Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), dry needling, IASTM, and corrective exercises to improve movement and relieve sciatic nerve irritation.

Our treatment plans are designed to:

• Reduce buttock and leg pain

• Relieve sciatic nerve irritation

• Improve hip mobility

• Restore strength and stability

• Improve walking, running, and daily function

• Help prevent future flare-ups without unnecessary medications or surgery