Piriformis syndrome is a condition that causes gluteal pain and numbness. The condition can worsen with activity and is often caused by overuse or trauma. If it is left untreated, it may turn into a painful chronic condition that leaves you with restrictions or other issues such as sciatica. Dr. Williams explains how he can treat piriformis syndrome with nerve compression services so you can return to living pain-free.
Diagnosing and Treating Piriformis Syndrome
There are other conditions that can present symptoms that are similar to piriformis syndrome, such as a herniated disc, cluneal nerve entrapment, or sciatica. There is not a single test to diagnose piriformis syndrome, so diagnosis is made by ruling out other conditions and diagnosing based on symptoms and pain.
To treat piriformis syndrome, avoiding activities that cause pain is first recommended, along with rest. Other treatment options include:
- Physical therapy that includes stretching exercises
- Medication such as anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants
- Nerve release surgery to release the sciatic nerve from the piriformis muscle
Untreated Piriformis Syndrome Complications
Piriformis syndrome can lead to serious complications if left untreated or undiagnosed. For some patients, the pain may be misdiagnosed as a lower back issue, so treatment is based on that type of condition rather than piriformis syndrome.
If the symptoms are thought to be from another condition other than piriformis syndrome, the patient may have unnecessary surgery or injections that increase their risk for complications and lead to chronic pain. Not treating piriformis syndrome can also make the person unable to train or continue an exercise routine.
Contact a Baltimore Peripheral Nerve Specialist
If you have piriformis syndrome and need treatment, contact our office for an evaluation. Dr. Williams can accurately diagnose the condition, answer any questions you may have, create a treatment plan to prevent possible complications, and get you back to living pain-free as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment in the Baltimore office, contact us at (410) 709-3868 or fill out our contact form online.
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