User:Wigwags

Causes
One symptom of an aggravated Piriformis muscle is Piriformis syndrome (PS). This can be caused by sitting for long periods of time or by long distance running. Even though there are some known causes of PS, it can still be hard to diagnose.

Diagnosis
A firm understanding of the anatomy and function of the Piriformis muscle and nerves can help rule out other causes like Sciatica, lower extremity weakness, and pain. We know that Piriformis syndrome occurs when the Sciatic nerve is compressed or pinched by the Piriformis muscle. In the article by Robert A. Beatty, two different maneuvers were developed to help diagnose Piriformis syndrome: Freiberg's maneuver has the patient internally rotate their extended thigh and Pace's maneuver has the patient abduct their legs in the seated position. These two maneuvers help diagnose Piriformis syndrome by moving the leg of the affected side, which, in turn, produces deep pain in the buttocks region.

Stretches
With the knowledge of the common causes of Piriformis syndrome, a prevention regime can be prescribed. The most common form of prevention is stretching, but can be mediated by other forms of prevention, as well. According to an article reviewed by Louise Chang, prevention of Piriformis syndrome is usually accompanied by avoiding running until the pain subsides or improving posture while sitting by sitting on a donut-shaped object, and by introducing crucial stretches into the patient’s daily lives.