A Personalized Approach to Piriformis Syndrome
Numbness, tingling, or a nagging ache deep in the buttocks often points to piriformis syndrome. The sciatic nerve gets squeezed by the piriformis muscle, and pain radiates down the leg.
Dr. Brett Shore provides treatment for patients with piriformis syndrome throughout Orange County and Los Angeles.
What Is Piriformis Syndrome?
The piriformis is a small muscle deep behind your hip. The sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body, runs right under it. In some people, the nerve passes straight through the muscle.
When the muscle tightens or swells, it presses on the nerve. You’ll often feel buttock pain, along with tingling, numbness, or a burning feeling down the leg.
The condition is common in runners, cyclists, desk workers, and recreational athletes throughout Orange County and Los Angeles.
When to Seek Treatment for Piriformis Syndrome
Every consultation starts with a hands-on exam, reviews your imaging, and opens a full conversation about treatment options. If you feel these symptoms, consult with a doctor right away:
Buttock pain that has lasted more than a few weeks
Pain, tingling, or numbness running down the back of your leg
Long drives or desk hours worsen the discomfort
Stairs, hills, or running that aggravate the ache
A dull buttock ache that returns after every workout
Back or hip treatments that haven’t calmed the symptoms
How Dr. Shore Treats
Piriformis Syndrome
Every case requires a different treatment plan. Dr. Shore lays out your options once the exam and scan results are out.
What Causes Piriformis Syndrome?
Piriformis syndrome isn’t limited to athletes. Commuters, golfers, and active adults in Los Angeles and Orange County often deal with it too. Several factors may irritate or tighten the piriformis muscle:
A fall or direct blow to the hip
Long hours at a desk or behind the wheel
Heavy running or cycling without enough cross-training
Skipped stretching that leaves the hip tight
Weak glutes that leave the piriformis overworked
A leg-length difference that changes hip mechanics
COMPREHENSIVE HIP EXPERTISE
A Careful Approach to Buttock and
Sciatic-Type Pain
Dr. Brett Shore is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in comprehensive hip care and conditions affecting the muscles, tendons, and nerves surrounding the hip.
Because symptoms of piriformis syndrome can resemble other hip or spine conditions, accurate diagnosis is an important part of treatment. Dr. Shore evaluates each patient’s symptoms, movement, imaging, and clinical findings to identify the most likely source of pain before recommending care.
Treatment is individualized around the diagnosis, activity level, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
Distinguished Training in Orthopedic and Hip Surgery
Undergraduate Degree
Medical Degree
Orthopedic Residency
Sports Medicine Fellowship
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Hip pain can limit your activity and affect your daily life. Dr. Shore can help you understand your options and start recovery.
