Treating Sciatica and Piriformis Syndrome
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. Therefore, its damage can cause pain across the body, from the lower back to the hip and leg.
Its causes and symptoms
Several different factors can contribute to this condition. This includes, but is not limited to, slipped disk, pregnancy, Spondylolisthesis and Radiculopathy. Generally, people aged between 30 and 50 are more likely to get it.
If you think you have sciatica, you should look out for these symptoms:
Chronic hip pain
Lower back pain
Leg pain, especially while sitting
Weakness or numbness in feet and legs
Difficulty moving the leg / foot
Difficulty standing up due to sharp pain
Typically, these symptoms last for a few weeks and affect one side of the lower body. However, the pain can be excruciating. In majority of cases, sciatica doesn’t require surgery.
Piriformis syndrome
Piriformis syndrome is caused by pain in the piriformis muscle. This muscle is in the buttock. Therefore, piriformis syndrome is a primary source of debilitating hip pain.
Piriformis muscle tightening, swelling or bleeding causes immense pain. In majority of cases, injury is the leading cause of piriformis muscle inflammation or ache. In addition, piriformis muscle pain can harm the sciatic nerve as well.
Piriformis syndrome treatment varies from one person to another. In severe cases, doctors prescribe medication.
On the other hand, exercises and stretches can alleviate pain in mild cases. The right treatment depends on a person’s medical history and diagnostic tests.
Piriformis syndrome and sciatica have one thing in common: both cause pain sensation.
It’s therefore important to seek treatment immediately in order to reduce pain. Massage therapy is a safe treatment for piriformis syndrome and sciatica. Having routine massage can reduce pain, decrease stress and boost recovery.
At Sports Massage on 7th, our licensed, experienced therapist combines deep pressure techniques to improve your condition. Our treatments include, but are not limited to, medical massage, sports massage and deep tissue massage. You can book an appointment online from the comfort of your home.
