Home Treatments for a Pinched Nerve in the Gluteal Muscles

The piriformis muscle in the gluteal area runs above the sciatic nerve, which stretches from the spinal cord down the buttocks and to the back of each leg. Sometimes, muscle spasms or inflammation in the piriformis muscle puts pressure on the sciatic nerve and causes pain to shoot down the buttocks and legs. Certain home treatments may help alleviate the inflammation and pain.

Bed Rest

• Individuals with a pinched sciatic nerve from the gluteal muscles can get at least some bed rest initially to prevent further aggravation of the injury while other remedies take effect, according to ArthritisTreatmentandRelief.com.

Ice Therapy

• Ice can reduce inflammation and swelling during the first two to seven days, when the sciatic pain from gluteal muscle pressure is at its worst, according to Spine-Health.

Medications

• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce inflammation and pain, Spine-Health says.

Effects of Exercise

• Once the initial inflammation and pain have subsided, stretching exercises can help loosen up tight lower-back and gluteal muscles, according to Spine Universe. Exercise also can increase blood flow, which brings oxygen and nutrients to the injured area for healing.

Warning

• Never allow pain from a pinched sciatic nerve in the gluteal muscles to linger. See a doctor for a proper diagnosis.