Piriformis Syndrome During Pregnancy
What Is Piriformis Syndrome?
The piriformis is a small muscle that lies under the gluteal muscles in the buttocks region. When this muscle goes into spasm or becomes hypertonic, it may compress the sciatic nerve, causing low back pain or numbness that radiates down the leg, and is generally felt only on one side. This condition is known as piriformis syndrome. Other symptoms may include a deep pain in the hip or buttock, tight and painful hamstrings and calves, and tense pain and decreased range of motion in the hip.
What Causes Piriformis Syndrome During Pregnancy?
There are many contributing factors to piriformis syndrome. The piriformis tends to be a very overused and overworked muscle. It is primarily a muscle used for hip rotation, so we use it often! Daily, repetitive activities, such as running and exercising, may cause it to become hypertonic or overly tight. There are also a few side effects of pregnancy that could lead to piriformis syndrome.
During pregnancy, the pelvic floor will shift gradually to accommodate the baby as it develops in the womb. While in the early stages of pregnancy, the body releases a chemical called relaxin, which relaxes the pubic symphisis (pubic bone), surrounding ligaments, and joints in the pelvis. The release of the relaxin allows the entire area to widen, allowing an increase of space for the baby. This can increase stress and strain on the sacrum (tail bone), where the piriformis attaches, causing the muscle to tighten over time until it is in a constant state of contraction.
Piriformis syndrome can also develop during pregnancy due to postural deviations caused by the weight bearing changes affecting the woman’s body. Often, because of the added weight of the baby, the mother will develop an anterior pelvic tilt. This occurs when the pelvis begins to shift forward with the weight of the baby in a way to compensate for balance. As the pelvis tilts forward, it causes the piriformis to tighten around the sciatic nerve.
Treatment for Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome can sometimes be difficult to avoid since it is primarily caused by daily activities and hormonal changes. All of these changes and activities are perfectly healthy, so there is no need to stop or change what you are doing. However, it may be a good idea to add an extra treatment to your routine in order to keep the aches and pains at bay.
There are many safe and gentle ways to relieve piriformis discomfort during your pregnancy. Massage is one of the most effective and beneficial. A licensed prenatal massage therapist can use special techniques that are safe to perform on pregnant women. Ask your Ob/Gyn for recommendations to be sure this treatment is right for you. A massage therapist, paired with a chiropractor who is experienced in prenatal care, will help you and your soon-to-be new arrival reach your optimum wellness goals, while keeping your pregnancy concerns and needs in mind.