Answer:
Dear
Dan,
Piriformis
syndrome to date remains the most misdiagnosed and easily treatable
causes of sciatica pain.
Most
commonly this syndrome is confused with a more serious nerve compression
or lumbar disc herniation.
Causes of Piriformis syndrome are over usage or repetitive injury,
hormonal changes, postural abnormalities and increased inactivity
in a chair
The reason
increased inactivity in a chair can cause the symptoms of Piriformis
Syndrome is that over time the muscle will shorten from its constant
shortened position sitting.
Once
the muscle has become physiologically shorter you will lose range
of motion in the area and experience tightness and discomfort.
Although
the cause and treatment of Piriformis Syndrome is very straightforward,
this is a commonly misdiagnosed problem.
One indicator
that will help clue in your doctor is a test you can even try yourself.
When
lying on your back, look down at your feet. If the leg in question
is rotated outward , that is a good indicator the Piriformis is in
spasm (this is known as the positive Piriformis sign).
Stretching
and home treatment is important for this condition.
Take
Calcium supplements - if you suffer from recurrent muscle spasms you
may be deficient in Calcium.
As always,
remember to stay hydrated, and stretch before and after exercising.
The following
are some simple stretching exercises that will keep the muscle in
form:
+ The
Lotus Posture - Sitting in a position in which each ankle rests on
the opposite thigh is one of the best ways in which to stretch the
piriformis muscle. If this posture is difficult initially, sitting
cross legged can also achieve a similar stretch.
+ The
Chair Stretch - When seated on a chair, place the ankle of the right
foot on the left knee. Push downward slightly on the knee, till you
feel the stretch. Repeat for the opposite side.
+ The
Lying Stretch - Lie flat on your back, then place your right ankle
on your left knee, and slowly lift or pull your left foot towards
your body, while pushing gently on the bent knee. Hold position, and
then repeat for the opposite side.
