Sciatic Pain and Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis Syndrome, also known as false or pseudo-sciatica, can cause pain, weakness, tingling and numbness in the low back, hips, and down the leg.  Piriformis Syndrome is caused by tightness and "knots" in the piriformis muscle compressing the sciatic nerve. The symptoms are very similar to true sciatica (nerve is compressed in the lumbar region of the spine.)

The sciatic nerve generally runs underneath the piriformis muscle, but for some people it can run through the middle of the piriformis muscle. Tension or contraction of this muscle can cause compression of the sciatic nerve, resulting in piriformis syndrome. 

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Since symptoms of True Sciatica are almost identical to Piriformis Syndrome, there are two chair tests that help distinguish between the two:

1.    While sitting on a chair, straighten your leg parallel to the floor on the side you are experiencing pain. If the pain increases, it is the symptom of true sciatica.
2.    Sit straight on a chair and pull your knee to the same shoulder and then to another one. If the pain gets worse, you have Piriformis Syndrome.

If you've determined that you have Piriformis Syndrome, use these tips to help relieve the pain!

Stretches

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Professional Massage

Your therapist will focus on the lower back muscles and the gluteal muscles. Trigger points and adhesions in the piriformis muscle are treated with steady compression techniques.  It's important to keep in mind that this region can be tender and sometimes painful. Let your therapist know if the pressure is too deep. 

Exercises to strength gluteal and hip rotator muscles

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Acupuncture

Acupuncture for Piriformis Syndrome can help by reducing inflammation and improving local circulation, reducing muscle stiffness.

Sources:
Root causes of sciatica pain
Four DIY treatments you can do anywhere
Relieving sciatic nerve pain