There’s a small, often overlooked muscle that significantly impacts your daily movements. It’s known as the piriformis, and it allows you to move your hips, legs, and feet away from your body. This muscle also covers the sciatic nerve, so it can cause irritation and pain when the piriformis becomes inflamed. Our physical therapist in Farmingdale, NY at Farmingdale Physical Therapy East would like to share some information about stretching for piriformis syndrome, so continue reading to learn more!
What is Piriformis Syndrome?
The piriformis is a small and difficult-to-reach muscle that extends from the sacrum to the thigh bone. Piriformis syndrome is an uncomfortable condition in which this muscle spasms and causes pain in the buttock. This muscle can also irritate the sciatic nerve nearby and lead to pain, tingling, and numbness akin to sciatic pain.
Stretching for Piriformis Syndrome
Our physical therapist in Farmingdale, NY may recommend stretching the piriformis muscle to relieve the pain along the sciatic nerve. Several different stretching exercises for the piriformis, hamstrings and hip flexors may be used to decrease uncomfortable symptoms and improve your range of motion. As always, please speak with a physician or a Farmingdale Physical Therapy East physical therapist before beginning any exercise routine.
Some of the most common stretches include:
- Knee-to-Chest Piriformis Stretch
- Hamstring Stretch.
- 4-Point Stretch
When in physical therapy or when executing prescribed physical therapy exercises at home, our team will emphasize the importance of stretching as far as it is comfortable for you without feeling pain. Continuing a painful stretch can injure your muscle further and exacerbate your symptoms. Our physical therapist in Farmingdale, NY will evaluate your condition and determine the most beneficial exercise program for your condition!
Contact Our Physical Therapist in Farmingdale, NY
Piriformis syndrome can cause you significant pain and discomfort and hinder your movement. At Farmingdale Physical Therapy East, our staff will perform a comprehensive evaluation to identify the source of your pain and establish a customized treatment plan to keep your pain at bay. Be sure to contact us today to schedule an appointment with our physical therapist in Farmingdale, NY!