Intense, deep, burning pain that starts in your buttocks and runs down the back of your leg is one of the symptoms of piriformis syndrome. Sitting for long periods of time -- as is required for cycling -- can lead to the painful condition, which is caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle. Rest from cycling, along with other conservative treatments, can lead to full recovery. Consult your physician if pain lasts longer than a few weeks and if you are experiencing bowel or bladder problems.
Origin
Your piriformis muscle originates at your lower spine and runs to the top of your femur, or thigh bone. The sciatic nerve runs underneath your piriformis muscle from your spinal cord to your buttocks and down the back of your leg. When the muscle becomes tight or begins to spasm, it puts pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing the painful symptoms known as piriformis syndrome.
Cause and Symptoms
Cyclists are prone to piriformis syndrome mainly due to repetitive trauma from sitting on hard surfaces such as the standard bike seat. The "Journal of the American Osteopathic Association" cites this type of direct compression, or "wallet neuritis," as the source of macrotrauma to the buttocks. This type of trauma leads to soft tissue inflammation and muscle spasms resulting in compression of the nerve, which may cause radiating pain, tingling and numbness.
Treatment
Temporarily take a break from your cycling routine in order to allow the inflamed and irritated piriformis to calm down. Several times a day, treat the affected area with an ice pack for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. After two to three days of ice treatments, you can use heat therapy if the area is still painful, or you can alternate ice and heat. Massage and anti-inflammatory drugs may also be helpful to reduce pain and inflammation.
Prevention
Ask your doctor or physical therapist to recommend specific stretches for the piriformis muscle and the adductor and abductors. Avoid sitting or lying for long periods of time in a position that puts pressure on the buttocks. Consider having your cycling biomechanics assessed by a fitness professional, as improper joint alignment and poor posture can also contribute to piriformis syndrome. Perform a thorough warmup and cool-down that targets your hips and gluteus muscles as part of your cycling routine.
References
- Family Doctor: Piriformis Syndrome
- "Journal of the American Osteopathic Association": Diagnosis and Management of Piriformis Syndrome; An Osteopathic Approach; Lori A. Boyajian-O'Neill, D.O., et al.; November 2008
- MayoClinic.com; Sciatica; April 2010
- Sports Injury Clinic: Piriformis Rehabilitation and Treatment
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