Leg Pain Relief for Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle, heavily involved in thigh movement, aggravates the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body, running from the lower back through the buttocks and down the legs. The resulting pain is known as "sciatica." It causes shooting pains in the legs, buttocks and lower back. A combination of self-care and a professionally guided treatment regimen can aid in healing.

Professonal Advice

• In many injuries, stretching is ill-advised, but in the case of piriformis syndrome it is an important part of your healing strategy. Seek out a physical therapist or sports medicine physician with experience treating piriformis syndrome; it is a common athletic injury. He can show you the proper way to stretch and advise you of any other appropriate measures to take. It is important to follow the suggested treatment regimen for maximum benefit.

Self-Care Measures

• Proper self-care is an important part of your healing strategy. It will enhance your physical therapy exercises and speed the healing process. During the first two days of your injury, applying cold applications can ease inflammation and discomfort. Do this for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day. After 48 hours, apply heat to any areas where you feel pain in the same time intervals mentioned above. You can also alternate between hot and cold if you find that provides better relief.

  If you are experiencing pain, try over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If you find these medications are inadequate, talk to your doctor about stronger options. He might suggest a prescription pain reliever or steroid injection.

  Engage in a level of exercise appropriate for your situation. It is one of the best ways to ease the chronic discomfort common in piriformis syndrome. Ease into exercise with a low-impact activity like water exercises or riding a stationary bike. As your leg heals, you can move on to other activities.