The Piriformis muscle is a small muscle which originates in the base of the spine and inserts into the top of the leg bone (femur). The sciatic nerve runs through the piriformis muscle. If the muscle becomes tight, often from overuse, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve and cause pain which may radiate down the leg. The piriformis syndrome often mimics sciatica, the difference is the origin of the pain.
Any muscle that is used repetitively needs a chance to recover. Imagine what happens to your piriformis muscle every time you swing a golf club. The repetitive and sudden swinging motion pulls the muscle, which eventually begins to spasm. When the piriformis muscle begins to spasm it will pull the hip bone causing the hip to become misaligned.
Dr. Timothy Nelson, DC, Doctor of Chiropractic
Heritage Health
www.heritagehealth.net
(303) 694-1245
