Sciatica vs. Piriformis Syndrome

~The main difference between sciatica and piriformis syndrome is in the cause. Sciatica is directly due to a lumbar disc pressing on the sciatic nerve as it exits the intervertebral foramen in the lumbar spine.

~What both of these complaints have in common is that both can produce pain, numbness and tingling below the knee and into the foot.

Signs and Symptoms:
* Deep aching in the buttock and thigh on the involved side. Usually not beyond the knee.
* Pain is often aggravated by sitting, squatting or walking.
* Affected leg is often externally rotated (toes point out) when relaxed, such as when lying face down on the bed with your feet over the end of the mattress.
* Right leg often affected after driving a long distance if the foot has been in external rotation while depressing the gas pedal.
* Often causes low back pain
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~ Many weekend athletes and people who spend long hours sitting are prone to this syndrome. The athlete's cause is primarily due to improper stretching and warm-up exercises as well as overuse during activity. In this case it is most likely that the piriformis muscle is irritated and usually in spasm.

~In the individual who sits for extended periods of time, their primary cause is due to contracture of the piriformis muscle. In this case the piriformis muscle is shortened and does not allow for the smooth movement of the sciatic nerve during leg motion.

~Any treatment plan must include stretching of the gluteal muscles as well as stretching of the piriformis muscles. Your Health/Fitness Professional can help you by instructing you on the proper exercises and stretches to perform. Many Health Professionals may also prescribe some form of massage be performed to the piriformis muscle in the gluteal region in order to relax these muscles.



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