Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome causes buttock pain, sciatic nerve irritation, and limited movement. Physiotherapy, stretching, strengthening, and targeted regenerative treatments help relieve symptoms and restore function.
Understanding Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle, located deep in the buttocks,
compresses the sciatic nerve as it travels down the leg. This causes pain in the buttocks and
back of the thigh — often described as aching, burning, or tightness — and is frequently
aggravated by sitting, driving, or squatting.
Causes
- Lower Back Issues
- Poor Abdominal, Gluteal, and Core Strength
Symptoms
- Hip and Low Back Pain
- Numbness or Tingling
- Difficulty Walking, Squatting, or Sitting
- Limited Hip Range of Motion
- Aching Pain in the Buttocks
- Pain Radiating Down the Posterior Thigh
Treatment
Specialist & Regenerative Medicine Options
In cases where piriformis syndrome is persistent, severe, or associated with significant nerve irritation, our Prestidge sports physicians can offer targeted injectable and regenerative treatments to help manage symptoms and support recovery.
- Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy — Ultrasound or CT-guided PRP injection into the piriformis muscle and the sciatic nerve interface reduces localised inflammation and supports soft tissue healing around the nerve, providing sustained relief from deep buttock pain and sciatica-like symptoms.
- Corticosteroid Injections — An image-guided injection of corticosteroid into the piriformis muscle belly rapidly reduces muscle inflammation and sciatic nerve irritation, allowing physiotherapy and stretching to progress more effectively.
- Prolotherapy — Targeted injection into the sacroiliac and hip ligaments addresses underlying joint instability that may be driving compensatory piriformis spasm.
- Botulinum Toxin (Botox) Injections — In refractory cases of piriformis syndrome, injection of botulinum toxin into the piriformis muscle causes temporary muscle relaxation, directly reducing compression of the sciatic nerve. This is a well-recognised intervention for chronic piriformis syndrome and can provide relief for several months.
- Dry Needling under Ultrasound Guidance — Precise needling of active trigger points within the piriformis muscle provides immediate reduction in muscle tone and referred pain patterns.
Our sports and exercise physicians at Prestidge work alongside your treating clinician to determine which option best suits your condition, goals, and stage of injury. Image-guided procedures are performed with precision and care. Visit prestidge.com.au to learn more about our full range of specialist services.
Important: All specialist consultations, prescription treatments, and injectable procedures are subject to individual clinical assessment by a registered medical practitioner. Suitability, potential benefits, and risks will be discussed during your consultation. No treatment outcomes are guaranteed. Prescription medicines — including testosterone and peptide therapies — are only available following appropriate medical review and a valid prescription in accordance with TGA and AHPRA requirements.