Piriformis Pain Care in Rochester
A deep ache in the buttock that won’t ease up, especially after you’ve been sitting a while. That’s one of the most common complaints we hear at McCauley Chiropractic. People usually assume it’s a hip problem or general soreness.
The Muscle Behind the Pain
Piriformis syndrome happens when that muscle, tucked deep in the buttock near the hip joint, tightens or becomes inflamed and starts pressing on the sciatic nerve running beneath or through it. The symptoms may look a lot like sciatica caused by a disc problem, which is exactly why it gets misdiagnosed so often. One clue that helps tell them apart: piriformis pain tends to center in the buttock itself rather than the lower back.
Why This Muscle Gets Irritated
This one usually builds gradually, from repeated strain or positions that keep the piriformis muscle shortened and tight over time.
- Prolonged sitting, especially on hard surfaces or with a wallet in a back pocket
- Running or cycling without much hip mobility
- A sudden jump in activity level
- Weak glutes or tight hip rotators throwing off the muscle balance
- Direct trauma to the buttock area
What patients usually describe is a deep, aching pain in the buttock that gets worse with sitting, climbing stairs, or squatting. Some also notice tingling or numbness running down the back of the thigh, which is why this often gets mistaken for sciatica even when the spine itself is fine.
Loosening What’s Been Tightening Up
The first step is figuring out whether the piriformis muscle, the sciatic nerve, or both are behind the pain. From there, Dr. McCauley typically combines spinal and pelvic adjustments with targeted soft tissue work to directly release piriformis tension. Massage therapy fits naturally here too, loosening the muscle and improving blood flow. A few well-chosen stretches round it out and help keep the tightness from creeping back.
Care That Gets to the Real Cause
Since 2000, McCauley Chiropractic has helped Rochester patients get to the actual root of hip and buttock pain, the kind that other providers sometimes gloss over. Dr. McCauley takes the time to explain what’s happening in plain language, so you’re never left wondering what your care plan is actually doing. Getting started is easy in an office built to feel relaxed rather than clinical, with a free consultation and chair massage for new and current patients.
Take the Next Step
Don’t let piriformis pain decide how you sit, move, or work out. Call (248) 650-5525 and get a clear plan for relief.
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