Piriformis Syndrome Treatment Leicester – Frequently Asked Questions
What is piriformis syndrome?
Piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle, located deep in the buttock, irritates or compresses the sciatic nerve. This can cause buttock pain and symptoms similar to sciatica, including pain, tingling, or numbness travelling down the leg.
What causes piriformis syndrome?
Piriformis syndrome can develop when the muscle becomes tight, overworked, or inflamed. Common causes include:
• prolonged sitting or driving
• muscle overload from exercise or running
• poor movement mechanics
• hip weakness or instability
• previous lower back or pelvic injury
• postural strain from desk work
Identifying the underlying cause helps prevent recurring symptoms.
What does piriformis syndrome feel like?
Symptoms often include:
• deep aching pain in the buttock
• pain when sitting for long periods
• tenderness in the gluteal region
• tingling or numbness down the leg
• discomfort when climbing stairs or walking uphill
• relief when standing or moving
Unlike lumbar disc sciatica, pain often begins in the buttock rather than the lower back.
How is piriformis syndrome different from sciatica?
Piriformis syndrome is sometimes called deep gluteal syndrome because the sciatic nerve irritation originates in the buttock rather than the spine.
• Spinal sciatica → nerve irritation from the lower back
• Piriformis syndrome → nerve irritation from the buttock muscle
A proper assessment helps determine the true source of symptoms.
How do you treat piriformis syndrome at your Leicester clinic?
Treatment focuses on reducing muscle tension, improving hip function, and relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Care may include:
• osteopathy to improve pelvic and hip mobility
• physiotherapy to restore movement and reduce nerve sensitivity
• sports therapy to release deep muscle tightness and correct imbalances
• shockwave therapy for persistent muscular trigger points
• guided strengthening and mobility exercises
How many treatments will I need?
Most patients benefit from an initial course of at least 6 sessions to:
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reduce muscle tension and nerve irritation
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restore hip mobility and movement patterns
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improve strength and stability
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prevent recurrence
After improvement, ongoing maintenance sessions may be recommended to prevent flare-ups and support long-term muscle health.
How long does piriformis syndrome take to improve?
Recovery depends on symptom duration and lifestyle factors.
Typical timelines:
• early relief: 2–3 weeks
• improved sitting and walking comfort: 4–6 weeks
• full functional recovery: 6–10 weeks
Consistent treatment and home exercises significantly improve outcomes.
Can sitting make piriformis syndrome worse?
Yes. Prolonged sitting compresses the piriformis muscle and can increase sciatic nerve irritation. Regular movement, posture adjustments, and targeted stretches can help reduce symptoms.
Is piriformis syndrome common?
Yes. It is a common cause of buttock pain and sciatic-type symptoms, particularly among office workers, drivers, runners, and gym-goers.
Can piriformis syndrome return?
It can return if underlying muscle imbalances, posture habits, or movement patterns are not addressed.
Ongoing strengthening, mobility work, and maintenance treatment can significantly reduce recurrence.
Why seek private treatment for piriformis syndrome in Leicester?
• fast access to assessment and treatment
• clear diagnosis of buttock vs spinal nerve pain
• hands-on therapy to relieve deep muscle tension
• personalised rehabilitation programmes
• focus on long-term prevention and movement health
