Introduction
Piriformis syndrome is a pain radiating from the hip and caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve. It is named after the piriformis muscle, which forms an opening (foramen infrapiriforme) with the pelvic bone. This opening represents a bottleneck for the sciatic nerve in Piriformis syndrome.
The cause can be a trauma, i.e. an injury, in the gluteal region (regio glutealis), or a violent movement. An incorrect posture or long periods of sitting on one side are also possible. The main symptom consists of severe pain in the buttocks, which often radiates from the back of the thigh to the knee.
For those affected, rotary movements (such as crossing the legs) are particularly painful. Furthermore, there can be disturbances of sensitivity (sensation) in the legs. An important differential diagnosis is the herniated disc of the lumbar spine, which should be excluded by the doctor in case of doubt.
Curability
Piriformis syndrome is in most cases treatable and curable with conservative methods. A cure for Piriformis Syndrome can be understood as freedom from pain, which is often only achieved after weeks and months. Since the course of the piriformis syndrome can often drag on for weeks and months, the patience and cooperation of patient and practitioner (doctor/physiotherapist) is of great importance for the success of the treatment.
In order to treat a piriformis syndrome quickly and without complications, its early detection is important. Many patients visit the right doctor too late, which is why the initial phase, which is so important for the therapy, is missed. Once freedom from pain and discomfort is achieved, the patient is more susceptible to the recurrence of piriformis syndrome. For this reason, the special stretching exercises should be continued even after painlessness has been achieved in order to prevent a recurrence.
Healing time
The course of a piriformis syndrome often extends over weeks and months. The described therapy measures can accelerate this course, but it requires the active cooperation of the patient (e.g. stretching exercises). Often it has a positive effect on the duration of healing if the disease is detected early and treated adequately. In any case, Piriformis Syndrome requires the patience of both patient and therapist, as the protracted course with pain and restricted movement can be stressful despite good results through stretching exercises, massages and drug therapy.