The piriformis muscle is a deep gluteal muscle that passes near or above the sciatic nerve. According to the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, piriformis spasm, also known as piriformis syndrome, can irritate the sciatic nerve, resulting in posterior leg pain, numbness and weakness. Piriformis syndrome is often confused with lower back disc injury and it is important to get a proper diagnosis. Spasms of the piriformis muscle will generally respond to conservative treatments.
Stretching
To stretch the piriformis muscle, the patient should sit in a chair and place the ankle of the involved leg on the thigh of the uninvolved leg, just above the knee. The patient should allow the involved hip to drop open as far as possible, and then bend forward, hinging at the hips, as far as possible. The piriformis stretch should be held for 30 seconds and then repeated on the uninvolved side. Repeat the stretch as often as needed throughout the day.
Physical Therapy
If the piriformis spasm does not resolve within one week, a course of formal physical therapy may be prescribed by the physician. Physical therapists will use modalities such as heat and ultrasound to warm the piriformis muscle and make it more receptive to stretching. The patient will be instructed in stretches and strengthening exercises to reduce the pirifomis spasm and make it less likely to reoccur. In cases of acute and severe spasm, the patient may receive ice and electrical stimulation to reduce pain and spasm. Physical therapy generally is prescribed two times per week, for four weeks.
Massage Therapy
According to "Massage Today," massage therapy performed by a qualified practitioner can be an effective tool for treating piriformis syndrome. Massage therapy to the lower back and buttock area can reduce muscle spasm and increase circulation to the affected area. A massage therapist may also incorporate heat and stretching into the treatment. The patient should receive massage therapy one to three times per week during the acute phases of piriformis spasm. Once the symptoms have resolved, massage therapy can be decreased to one to two times per month or as needed.
