If you’ve been told you have “sciatica” but:
Your back doesn’t really hurt
Hip pain while sitting
The pain starts in your butt
…you may be dealing with piriformis syndrome, not a disc injury.
And that’s good news—because it’s usually faster and easier to fix when treated correctly.
Piriformis syndrome and sciatica can feel very similar because both may cause pain that travels down the leg. The key difference is the source. Piriformis syndrome originates from tightness or irritation in the piriformis muscle, while sciatica is typically related to nerve compression in the lower spine.
Prolonged sitting, running, climbing stairs, squatting, or sudden increases in physical activity can aggravate symptoms. Even everyday habits like poor posture or crossing the legs for long periods may contribute to irritation.
Treatment often focuses on reducing muscle tightness, improving hip and pelvic mobility, and addressing movement imbalances. Care may include manual therapy, stretching guidance, and chiropractic adjustments based on individual needs.
