Lower back and glute pain. Could it be Sciatica?

Written by: Melanie Talastas-Soriano BA-Kin, CAT(C), ISSA-CPT
Athletic Therapist, Personal Trainer

Sciatica is a condition that is well known as the pain on the lower back, glutes and hamstring (back of the leg) all the way to the calf and foot. The Sciatic nerve is one of the major nerves that originates from the lower spine and goes to the rest of the legs and foot. Unless you have a history of spine injury, lower back pain or glute pain associated with the sciatic nerve is most likely caused by an injury to the piriformis muscle.

Do not be confused between “sciatica” and “piriformis syndrome” because these conditions are different. Sciatica is a condition directly affects the origin of the sciatic nerve (lumbar spine) possibly from disc related injuries. The major symptoms are reported to be numbness and tingling from the lower back all the way to the foot.

Piriformis syndrome on the other hand is the condition directly affecting the glute muscle (piriformis included) which cause muscle inflammation or muscle spasm which result in compression to the sciatic nerve. Injury to the piriformis muscle can happen from inactivity, sedentary workplace or muscle strain from repetitive sports like running.

Piriformis Syndrome Symptoms:
• Pain down the back of the legs
• Dull or ache in the glute muscles
• Pain progressively worse after prolong sitting
• Pain when climbing stairs or incline
• Tight hamstring muscles and calves
• Reduce range of motion on the hip

If you are experiencing piriformis injury, do not hesitate to book your Athletic Therapy appointment with us here at INSAHYU Training + Therapy.



PREVENTION WORKSHOP: Piriformis Syndrome NOVEMBER 17, 2018 at 11:00 AM (45 min session in small group)

INSAHYU Training + Therapy: 250 Saulteaux Crescent

• Learn to decrease your pain with proven techniques
  
• Complete stretching routine to increase hip range of motion
  
• Ask Athletic Therapy experts about your piriformis injury
  

*Cost for the workshop is $50
*Early bird registration $30.00 for the first 10 registrant
*To reserve your spot e-transfer your $30 fee to [email protected] by November 16 before 6pm. (subject: Workshop Piriformis)