What Is the Difference Between Piriformis Syndrome and a Piriformis Muscle Strain?

Aug 24, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Severe, noticeable pain in the buttock—similar to the sensation of a muscle strain—but upon examination, it is diagnosed as piriformis syndrome. What is the difference between piriformis syndrome and a muscle strain?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lin Yunfei
If the space between the piriformis muscles is narrow, it can easily compress the nerves and blood vessels passing through them, potentially causing a constellation of abnormal signs known as piriformis syndrome. In some women, piriformis syndrome may be triggered by conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease, oophoritis, or salpingo-oophoritis. Muscle strain typically refers to direct injury resulting from sudden muscular contraction during vigorous activity or from prolonged stretching, often accompanied by severe pain in the affected area.