What is Piriformis Syndrome?
Disease description:
I have recently been experiencing pain in my buttocks, which sometimes radiates to the lower limbs. After an examination, I was told it is piriformis syndrome. What exactly is piriformis syndrome?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Piriformis syndrome is a condition caused by injury or compression of the piriformis muscle, leading to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, primarily affecting the buttock and lower limb. The piriformis is a deep muscle located in the buttock, and its main functions are external rotation and abduction of the hip joint. Key features include:
1. Etiology: The most common causes include trauma to the buttock, piriformis muscle degeneration due to drug injections, and fracture displacement, all of which can lead to compression of the sciatic nerve at the site of the piriformis muscle.
2. Clinical manifestations: The primary symptoms are pain in the buttock and radiating pain in the lower limb. In severe cases, the pain can be intense and affect walking. It may be accompanied by numbness on the outer side of the calf and discomfort in the perineal area.
3. Examination and diagnosis: Diagnosis can be made through clinical examinations such as the straight leg raise test and piriformis tension test, combined with the patient's clinical symptoms.
4. Treatment: Treatment methods include rest, physical therapy, heat application, massage, stretching exercises, and medication. In some cases, injection therapy may also be required. In very rare cases where symptoms are severe and persistent, surgical treatment may be considered.
