Piriformis and Deep Gluteal Syndrome (DGS) can be a pain in the neck…or rather in the buttocks. These two conditions can cause pain in the buttocks, thighs, and lower back that may even make it difficult for individuals to walk, sit, or stand up for long periods. But, can individuals live a long life with Piriformis/DGS? Yes, they can! We’ll discuss in this blog how chiropractic and physiotherapy can help manage the syndrome so that individuals can lead healthy, active lives.
The piriformis muscle is what connects the sacrum (the part of the lower spine above the tailbone) and the femur (the thigh bone). Piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve, causing sciatic nerve pain. DGS is a rarer form of sciatic nerve pain that occurs due to compression of the sciatic nerve by tissues near the piriformis muscle. Both of these conditions can cause discomfort in the lower back, thighs, and buttocks.
Chiropractors can be a huge help in managing piriformis and DGS. By identifying misalignments in the spine that could be contributing to the discomfort, proper adjustments can be made to relieve hindering pressure. Additionally, chiropractors can help patients to identify and correct any poor posture habits that could be contributing to the pain.
Physiotherapy can be particularly effective in targeting and strengthening the weakened muscles that lead to Piriformis/DGS. Through targeted exercises, mobility can be improved and pain alleviated. In addition, massage can also be implemented to further relax and release tension within the area.
Stretching is an essential component of both chiropractic and physiotherapy in managing Piriformis/DGS. Consistent stretching can help significantly relieve pain in the buttocks, thighs, and lower back. Some examples of stretches that could be helpful include the seated figure-four stretch, lying piriformis stretch, and the supine hamstring stretch.
Beyond chiropractic and physiotherapy, a healthy lifestyle can be a powerful aid in living a long, healthy life with Piriformis/DGS. Eating a nutritious diet that is low in inflammatory foods can help reduce pressure on the nerve, as can getting enough rest, good hydration, and exercise. In general, seeking ways to minimize stress on the body is essential, and chiropractic and physiotherapy can both be fantastic tools to help manage the everyday stressors that can accompany Piriformis/DGS. With the right treatment, you won’t have to live with piriformis/deep gluteal syndrome.
There are many different ways to manage Piriformis/DGS in order to live a long and comfortable life. Chiropractic and physiotherapy play a critical role, and are often highly effective options for managing the pain and discomfort that Piriformis/DGS can cause. By incorporating the appropriate stretches and exercises into daily routine, maintaining proper posture habits, and enacting a healthy lifestyle, individuals with Piriformis/DGS can lead active and fulfilling lives.
