Piriformis Syndrome Treatment in Brooklyn NY
Piriformis syndrome is a lesser-known yet painful condition that can cause discomfort deep in the buttocks, often radiating down the leg. Many people mistake it for sciatica, since both conditions involve irritation of the sciatic nerve. Without proper treatment, this pain can worsen over time and interfere with daily activities, from sitting and walking to exercising or working.
At Back in Motion, our piriformis syndrome treatment in Brooklyn NY focuses on finding the true source of your pain, not just treating symptoms. Through a combination of manual therapy, guided exercises, and modern rehabilitation techniques, our team helps you restore movement, reduce nerve pressure, and prevent recurrence.
Understanding Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle, a small but important muscle located deep in the buttock, compresses or irritates the nearby sciatic nerve. According to the Cleveland Clinic (2025), this nerve compression can cause pain, tingling, or numbness that travels from the lower back or buttock down the back of the leg.
The StatPearls (2023) review explains that the piriformis muscle assists in rotating the hip and stabilizing the pelvis during movement. When it becomes tight, inflamed, or injured, it can compress the sciatic nerve, especially in individuals whose anatomy positions the nerve closer to or through the muscle. This can lead to radiating pain that feels similar to sciatica.
Common causes of piriformis syndrome include:
Overuse or repetitive movements such as running or prolonged walking
Sitting for extended periods
Direct trauma or strain to the gluteal region
Muscle imbalances or poor posture
Previous hip or lower back injuries
While piriformis syndrome is less common than other causes of sciatic pain, it can significantly impact daily comfort and mobility. It often affects people who sit for long hours, drive frequently, or engage in athletic activities that involve hip rotation.
In a city like Brooklyn NY, where walking, commuting, and sitting for extended hours are part of everyday life, these risk factors can easily add up. That’s why timely evaluation and targeted therapy are essential to recovery.
Symptoms of Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome symptoms often resemble those of sciatica, but the origin of pain lies within the buttock rather than the lower spine. The condition may cause:
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Persistent pain in the buttock that worsens after sitting
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Shooting or burning pain that radiates down the back of the thigh or leg
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Tingling or numbness in the leg or foot
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Pain that worsens when climbing stairs or walking uphill
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Discomfort when crossing the legs or standing up from a seated position
According to PubMed (2023), the pain may intensify after prolonged inactivity, and tightness in the piriformis muscle can lead to additional strain on surrounding structures. Because symptoms often mimic lumbar nerve compression, professional evaluation is important to rule out disc-related conditions or spinal stenosis.
How Piriformis Syndrome Affects Daily Life in Brooklyn NY
Living in Brooklyn means staying active, commuting, walking to the subway, climbing stairs, or working long hours at a desk. For someone with piriformis syndrome, these simple routines can become painful and frustrating.
If you sit for extended periods at work, you might experience deep aching or numbness in one buttock. If your job requires driving, lifting, or standing, those activities may trigger sharp pain down your leg. Parents and caregivers may struggle with daily chores like bending or carrying children. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts may notice tightness that limits performance or causes imbalance.
Over time, the pain can affect your posture, sleep quality, and emotional well-being. You might find yourself avoiding social activities or exercise, which can lead to stiffness, deconditioning, and increased discomfort.
At Back in Motion, we understand that piriformis syndrome affects not only your physical health but also your confidence and quality of life. Our goal is to help you move comfortably again, whether you’re walking through Brooklyn Heights, working in Downtown Brooklyn, or relaxing at home.
Evidence-Based Treatment Options
At Back in Motion, our piriformis syndrome treatment in Brooklyn NY is built on proven methods that restore function and ease nerve compression. We combine hands-on care, corrective exercises, and supportive therapies tailored to each patient’s needs.
Chiropractic Care and Manual Manipulation
Chiropractic adjustments and gentle spinal mobilization can relieve stress on the pelvis and lower back, improving alignment and reducing pressure on the piriformis muscle. Proper joint mechanics help restore balance between the spine, hips, and legs.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is the cornerstone of piriformis syndrome treatment. A customized exercise plan may include gentle stretching, soft tissue work, nerve gliding, and strengthening of hip stabilizers. The National Institutes of Health (2022) highlights that nerve mobilization techniques can effectively reduce sciatic irritation while improving muscle flexibility and coordination.
Therapists may also incorporate posture training, gait correction, and core stability exercises to prevent future episodes.
Occupational Therapy
Our occupational therapists help patients modify daily movements and ergonomics at home or work. Whether you spend long hours driving or sitting at a desk, small adjustments to posture, seating, or movement habits can significantly reduce recurrence.
Spinal Decompression
If spinal misalignment or disc pressure contributes to your symptoms, spinal decompression therapy can help by reducing nerve tension and enhancing overall spine health.
Shockwave Therapy
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate tissue healing and reduce chronic muscle pain. According to PMC (2022), ESWT has shown promising results in reducing pain and improving flexibility in patients with chronic piriformis syndrome.
Sports Rehabilitation
For athletes, sport rehab focuses on restoring movement symmetry, muscle balance, and proper biomechanics. Our therapists guide you through gradual loading and movement retraining to ensure safe return to activity.
Myofascial Cupping
Cupping therapy enhances blood flow and reduces muscle tension in the gluteal region. It helps release trigger points and alleviate tightness in the piriformis and surrounding muscles.
Joint Manipulation
Gentle mobilization of the hip and pelvis improves movement efficiency and reduces compensatory stress. Combined with stretching, this restores normal muscle length and joint range of motion.
Normatec Compression Therapy
Normatec dynamic compression helps improve circulation, relieve soreness, and support recovery after intense therapy sessions or activity.
Car Accidents and Workers Compensation
If your piriformis syndrome stems from a car accident or workplace injury, we provide comprehensive documentation and therapy aligned with workers compensation and personal injury programs.
Injection and Minimally Invasive Treatments
In some cases, corticosteroid or botulinum toxin injections may be recommended for severe muscle spasms. The Practical Neurology (2025) article notes that such injections can provide targeted relief when conservative therapies alone are insufficient.
At Back in Motion, we prioritize conservative care first, using injections only as a complementary measure if necessary.
Our Approach at Back in Motion
Our piriformis syndrome treatment in Brooklyn NY follows a holistic, step-by-step approach to ensure long-term recovery and comfort.
Comprehensive Assessment – We begin with a full evaluation of your posture, gait, and muscle strength to identify imbalances and nerve involvement.
Collaborative Team Care – Our chiropractors, physical therapists, and occupational therapists work together to address all contributing factors.
Customized Therapy Plans – Each program is tailored to your pain level, mobility, and goals, ensuring a personalized experience.
In-Home or In-Clinic Treatment – We offer flexible options so you can receive care wherever it’s most convenient.
Education and Prevention – We teach self-management strategies, stretching routines, and ergonomic adjustments to prevent recurrence.
Progress Tracking – Your progress is monitored at every step to ensure consistent improvement and lasting results.
Why Choose Back in Motion in Brooklyn NY
Patients throughout Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Hoboken, and Jersey City trust Back in Motion because:
We provide multidisciplinary expertise under one roof, combining chiropractic, physical, and occupational therapies.
We offer in-home treatment options for convenience and comfort.
Our team uses research-backed methods proven to deliver long-term results.
Our clinicians are highly trained and licensed in complex musculoskeletal rehabilitation.
We are centrally located at 2625 E 14th St #209, Brooklyn NY, easily accessible to surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients start noticing improvement within 4 to 6 weeks of consistent therapy, though complete recovery may take several months depending on severity.
Yes. When performed by a licensed professional, chiropractic adjustments and mobilizations are safe and effective for improving alignment and relieving nerve tension.
Not necessarily. In most cases, a physical evaluation is sufficient. Imaging may be recommended if other conditions such as a herniated disc are suspected.
Yes, if posture, muscle imbalances, or sedentary habits are not corrected. Regular stretching and strengthening can help prevent recurrence.
Yes. We provide comprehensive evaluation, treatment, and documentation for workers compensation and accident-related injuries.
We serve clients throughout Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Hoboken, and Jersey City, offering both in-home and in-clinic therapy services.
Start Your Piriformis Syndrome Recovery Today
Piriformis syndrome can make sitting, walking, or working painful, but it doesn’t have to limit your life. With expert piriformis syndrome treatment in Brooklyn NY from Back in Motion, you can experience lasting relief, better mobility, and renewed confidence in movement.
Our team combines compassion, experience, and science-backed care to help you feel and move your best, right from the comfort of your home.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation in Brooklyn NY and start your journey toward pain-free living.
PIRIFORMIS SYNDROME
Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis Syndrome is a condition that causes pain in the buttocks and hip area. Yes, we said it, PAIN IN THE BUTT! This condition stems from the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle. This muscle is located in the hip region that helps to rotate the hip and stabilize the joint.
When the muscle tightens, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing pain that radiates down the leg and into the foot. Moreover, the pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp burning sensation. Symptoms that accompany the pain include numbness, tingling, and weakness.
On this page, we will detail the clinical presentation of piriformis syndrome as well as the causes of this disease. We will also decipher the scientific research that investigates the effects of chiropractic care in the management of piriformis syndrome.
What are the causes of piriformis syndrome?
There are several causes and risk factors of piriformis syndrome, including:
Traumatic injuries
A direct blow to the hip or buttock area can cause muscle spasms and trigger the development of piriformis syndrome.
Overuse of the muscles
Overuse of the piriformis muscle from prolonged sitting or repetitive motions (e.g., running, cycling) can cause the muscle to spasm and irritate the sciatic nerve.
Tightened muscles
Weakness in other muscles of the pelvis can cause the piriformis muscle to overcompensate and become tight, ultimately precipitating piriformis syndrome.
Low-grade inflammation
Inflammation in the hip irritates the piriformis muscle and compresses the sciatic nerve.
Degeneration of the spine
Degenerative changes in the spine, such as spinal stenosis or herniated discs, can put pressure on the sciatic nerve and compress it.
Structural abnormalities
Structural abnormalities triggered by a tilted pelvis and a difference in leg length put extra stress on the piriformis muscle.
Various medical conditions
Other medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or spinal cord injuries, can increase the risk of developing Piriformis Syndrome.
What are the signs and symptoms of piriformis syndrome?
Every patient with piriformis syndrome presents with various symptoms. However, the vast majority of patients will experience pain.
Here is a detailed list of the signs and symptoms of piriformis syndrome:
Buttock pain
The most common symptom of piriformis syndrome is a pain in the buttocks.
Sciatica-like symptoms
Pain that radiates down the back of the leg and into the foot is often referred to as sciatic pain. Moreover, this symptom is also common in patients with piriformis syndrome.
Learn more about sciatica by clicking on this link (insert a link).
Decreased range of motion
The pain and muscle tightness associated with piriformis syndrome can limit mobility and flexibility, diminishing your range of motion in the articulations of your hip and pelvis.
Muscle spasms
The piriformis muscle may become too tight, causing pain and discomfort in the hip area.
Difficulty sitting
Prolonged sitting can exacerbate the pain and discomfort associated with piriformis syndrome.
Stiffness
Stiffness in the hip may be present, especially after periods of inactivity.
Weakness
Weakness in the hip may be present, especially when walking or performing physical activities.
The complications of piriformis syndrome
The complications of piriformis syndrome may occur when the condition is left untreated. Unfortunately, some of these symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your quality of life.
Make sure to consult with a chiropractor before any of these complications develop:
Chronic pain
The pain associated with piriformis syndrome can become chronic, leading to ongoing discomfort and disrupted quality of life.
Decreased mobility
Prolonged stiffness and decreased range of motion in the hip make it difficult to perform day-to-day tasks and move around comfortably.
Muscle imbalances
The pain and tightness of piriformis syndrome lead to muscle imbalances in the hip, which can affect overall stability and increase the risk of injury.
Sciatic nerve damage
The compression of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle might damage the nerves in the long run. Sadly, this might precipitate permanent weakness or numbness in the hip muscles.
Increased risk of injury
The weakness and instability associated with this condition increase the risk of injury, especially during strenuous activities.
Decreased work performance
The symptoms of piriformis syndrome can also impact work performance, making it difficult to perform job tasks. Additionally, you may need to take a lot of days off when the pain is insupportable.
Weight gain
Decreased mobility will lower your energy expenditure and place you in a mandatory sedentary lifestyle. After a few weeks or months in this situation, you will most likely put on a few pounds.
Increased healthcare costs
The cost of treating piriformis syndrome, including medical evaluations, physical therapy, and pain management, can add up and lead to increased healthcare costs over time.
Chiropractic care for the management of piriformis syndrome (evidence-based)
Studies showed that chiropractic care with other treatments, such as exercise and physical therapy, can be effective in reducing the symptoms of piriformis syndrome. For instance, a 2012 case study of an U.S. army veteran with piriformis syndrome who received chiropractic care as part of his treatment plan. Results showed that he reported significant improvement in his symptoms after a few treatment sessions.
Another study found that spinal manipulative therapy is effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with piriformis syndrome. The review included 129 patients. Researchers concluded that most patients experienced significant pain relief after just a few weeks of treatment.
Aside from these studies, there are also many case reports and anecdotal evidence that support the effectiveness of chiropractic care for the management of piriformis syndrome.
Takeaway message
The symptoms of piriformis syndrome can be debilitating, especially when left untreated. Opting for pharmacological drugs may make things worse. Luckily, chiropractic care is a safe, effective approach that mitigates the symptoms of piriformis syndrome.
We hope that this article managed to highlight the role of chiropractors in the treatment of piriformis syndrome.
Reach out to us via the contact us page (insert link) for tailored advice about how our clinic can help you with piriformis syndrome.