The “piriformis” muscle, located deep in the buttock, begins at the lower spine and connects to the upper surface of each femur (thighbone). This small muscle helps stabilize the hip, leg, and pelvic area. When it becomes inflamed, after sitting too long or rotating the leg outward (as when driving), this small muscle can harden and press on the “sciatic nerve,” causing pain in the buttocks that radiates down the leg to the ankle or middle of the foot. It may also be felt in the lower back. Sitting usually makes the pain worse while standing or walking often makes it feel better. For longer-term relief, chiropractic treatment can help relieve the cause and effects of an inflamed piriformis muscle.
A chiropractic approach to diagnosing piriformis syndrome includes a full evaluation of your spine and pelvis and the related musculature. To schedule an appointment, please call FAMILY PRACTICE OF CHIROPRACTIC at 617-472- 4220. We accept most major insurance plans which included but not limited to Blue Cross Blue Shield, Harvard Pilgrim, Tufts, Mass Health Standard, Neighborhood Health Plan, Medicare, Network Health. Our office is located at 112 McGrath Hwy., Quincy.
P.S. While the symptoms of piriformis syndrome and sciatica are so similar that they may be indistinguishable, the two conditions are treated vastly differently.
For Your Health,
Dr. Gabrielle Freedman