Piriformis Syndrome (SILVER)

Question 1

What is Piriformis Syndrome?

Answer 1

Compression or irritation to the sciatic nerve secondary to piriformis muscle inflammation, spasm or contracture.

Question 2

Likely contributing factors for the development of piriformis syndrome?

Answer 2

• Hx of local trauma
• abnormal gait mechanics
• exaggerated lumbar lordosis

Question 3

Clinical presentation?

Answer 3

Radicular pain in mid-buttock

Complaints in sciatic nerve distribution

Question 4

Exacerbating factors of Piriformis Syndrome?

Answer 4

• Prolonged sitting
• Activities that combine IR and adduction
• Pain reproducible with palpation
• Positioning into flexion, adduction, and IR (FADIR)

Question 5

What condition does piriformis syndrome often mimic?

Answer 5

L5-S1 Radiculopathy

• Radicular symptoms often reproduced with SLR.