The piriformis is a small muscle located deep in the buttock, behind the gluteus maximus. It runs diagonally from the lower spine to the upper surface of the femur, with the sciatic nerve running underneath or through the muscle. The piriformis muscle helps the hip rotate, turning the leg and foot outward.
What is the main cause of piriformis syndrome?
Piriformis syndrome is usually due to compression or contraction of the piriformis muscle on certain areas of the sciatic nerve; the most common risk factors are overuse or trauma from sports, but other conditions can cause the symptoms.
How do I relax my piriformis muscle?
Massaging or stretching your piriformis may help reduce tension in this muscle and ease symptoms of piriformis syndrome.
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Let's look at three simple self-massage techniques you can use to help loosen up your piriformis muscle.
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Let's look at three simple self-massage techniques you can use to help loosen up your piriformis muscle.
- Foam roller massage. Share on Pinterest. ...
- Tennis ball (or similar ball) massage. ...
- Sitting on a ball.
