Piriformis Syndrome

The piriformis is a small muscle deep in the buttock that helps rotate the hip. When it gets tight or irritated — from long hours sitting, running, or a sudden increase in training — it can cause a deep ache in the buttock and sometimes pain or tingling down the back of the leg, because the sciatic nerve runs right next to it.

How massage can help

Our therapists use targeted pressure and stretching techniques to release the piriformis and the surrounding glute and hip muscles. Easing that tension can reduce the deep buttock ache and the pull down the leg, and make sitting and running more comfortable. Many clients feel a difference after one or two sessions.

What to expect

Your therapist will ask where the pain sits and what sets it off — sitting, stairs, running. The session focuses on the glutes, hips, lower back and hamstrings. Deep work in this area can feel intense, so your therapist will check in and adjust as you go, and show you a stretch to use at home.

Common questions

Is this the same as sciatica?
Not exactly. Both can cause pain down the leg, but piriformis pain comes from the muscle in the buttock, while sciatica often starts in the lower back. Our sciatica page explains more.

How many sessions will I need?
Many clients come weekly for a few weeks, then less often once things calm down.

When should I see a doctor?
If you have leg weakness, numbness that doesn't go away, or loss of bladder or bowel control, get medical care right away.