Sciatica and piriformis syndrome are a common cause of lower body pain. However, many individuals think they are the same conditions. Although sciatica and piriformis syndrome have similar symptoms, they are two different conditions. Knowing the differences between them is crucial in order to determine the right treatment. Sciatica For starters, sciatica is linked to the sciatic nerve. Any problem with the nerve, such as compression can result in sciatica. The nerve is large.