Piriformis Syndrome Massage (Sciatica Treatment)

Today’s video shows a piriformis muscle mobilization/massage technique that can be used to treat low back and hip pain and sciatica.

Sciatica most often describes symptoms that originate from the low back (lumbar spine) and radiate to the buttock and down the back of the leg. In some cases, sciatica originates in the pelvic region and is associated with deep gluteal structures, including the piriformis muscle, and can even be triggered by the upper hamstring attachment.

When working to improve symptoms associated with sciatica, interventions should have the primary goal of decreasing neural irritation. When neural symptoms improve, pain will decrease and won’t radiate as far down the leg. Besides exercise/movement interventions, soft tissue work (massage) in the region of the sciatic nerve and surrounding muscles (piriformis) can often help alleviate some discomfort.

If you are experiencing low back and/or buttock pain that you think may be associated with irritation of the sciatic nerve and you have a willing partner available, give the technique shown here a try. A bit of gentle pressure in the region of sensitivity can help reduce pain in many people.