Piriformis syndrome is a painful condition that occurs when the piriformis muscle, a small muscle located deep in the buttocks, becomes tight, inflamed, or irritated, compressing the sciatic nerve that runs beneath it. This pressure can cause radiating pain, tingling, or numbness that travels from the lower back and hips down into the legs, often mimicking sciatica.
While some cases develop suddenly due to injury or overuse, many people experience chronic piriformis-related pain from repetitive movements, prolonged sitting, or muscular imbalances that place stress on the area. Without proper care, the condition can worsen over time, limiting mobility and impacting daily activities like walking, bending, or even sleeping comfortably.
At Venice Village Chiropractic Clinic, Dr. Gary Bolen uses advanced diagnostic techniques to identify the root cause of your piriformis pain and develop a targeted plan focused on long-term relief — not just temporary symptom management.
How Our Care Plan Works
1. We Hear Your Story
Your first visit starts with a conversation, not a table. We’ll talk about what you’re experiencing, how it’s affecting your daily life, and what you’ve already tried — then we perform an appropriate examination to start pinning down the source and severity of the problem. Not just the location of the pain. The source.
2. We Explain What We Find
Once we’ve reviewed your history and examination findings, one of our doctors sits down with you and explains what we see, in plain, understandable language. We’ll tell you honestly whether we believe we can help, what your options look like, and what realistic goals for your care would be. No mystery, and no pressure.
3. We Help You Move Forward
If you decide to begin care, we build a personalized plan around your condition and your goals — then we actually pay attention to it. We monitor how you’re responding, answer your questions as they come up, and work with you toward real improvements in comfort, movement, and the life you’re trying to get back to.
Understanding the Symptoms and Causes of Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome can present differently from person to person, but common signs include:
- Deep, aching pain in the buttocks that may radiate down the leg
- Numbness or tingling that mimics sciatica
- Increased discomfort when sitting for long periods or climbing stairs
- Muscle tightness or spasms in the hips and lower back
The condition is often triggered by factors such as repetitive lower body movements, prolonged sitting, poor posture, or trauma from a fall or accident. Because its symptoms closely resemble those of lumbar disc problems or sciatica, an accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
Dr. Bolen conducts a thorough evaluation — including a physical examination and diagnostic imaging, if necessary — to determine whether the piriformis muscle is the true source of your pain. Once identified, he develops a personalized treatment plan to address the underlying cause, reduce nerve compression, restore muscle balance, and prevent future flare-ups.
Treatment may include chiropractic care, chiropractic laser therapy, spinal decompression, and shockwave therapy — advanced, non-invasive techniques that work together to relieve pain, improve mobility, and promote long-term healing.
Check Out Our Location Near You
4140 Woodmere Park Blvd Suite 2, Venice, FL 34293