The piriformis is a small muscle at the back of the hip that lies beneath the glute muscles. The sciatic nerve, which travels from the lower back down each leg, often lies directly under the piriformis. When the piriformis muscle gets tight or irritated, it can compress the underlying sciatic nerve, leading to piriformis syndrome.
Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome can be caused by repeated overuse of the piriformis muscle during exercise like running, as well as injury to the hip, muscle imbalances, and poor posture when sitting. Symptoms include pain, burning, numbness, or tingling that travels from the buttocks down the leg.
Most cases of piriformis syndrome are treated with physical therapy to decrease strain on the piriformis and underlying sciatic nerve. Occasionally, surgery is needed to cut through part of the muscle to relieve tension.
