Скачать или смотреть Sciatica vs Piriformis Syndrome | Home Stretches

Sciatica vs Piriformis Syndrome | Home Stretches

*Sciatica* and *Piriformis Syndrome* are both conditions that involve the sciatic nerve, but they differ in their causes and symptoms.

*Sciatica*
**Cause**:
Sciatica is caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, usually due to a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease in the lower spine. It often originates in the lumbar spine.
**Symptoms**:
Pain radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, typically from the lower back down through the buttock and into the leg. It can be sharp, burning, or tingling and may be accompanied by numbness or muscle weakness.
**Pain Distribution**:
Pain usually follows a specific dermatomal pattern corresponding to the affected nerve root (L4, L5, S1).
**Diagnosis**:
MRI or CT scans are often used to identify the cause of nerve compression. Physical examination may include straight-leg raise tests.
**Treatment**:
Management typically involves physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

*Piriformis Syndrome*
**Cause**:
Piriformis Syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle, located in the buttock region, compresses or irritates the sciatic nerve. It’s often due to muscle spasm, trauma, or overuse.
**Symptoms**:
Pain is primarily felt in the buttock and may radiate down the leg, similar to sciatica, but the pain is often more localized to the buttock. It may worsen with prolonged sitting or activities that involve hip rotation.
**Pain Distribution**:
The pain may not follow a specific dermatomal pattern and is often more focused in the buttock area.
**Diagnosis**:
Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on physical examination and patient history. Imaging is typically not needed unless other causes need to be ruled out.
**Treatment**:
Treatment includes stretching exercises, physical therapy, massage, and anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, corticosteroid or botulinum toxin injections may be used to relieve symptoms.

Key Differences
**Location of Pain**: Sciatica often involves the lower back and radiates down the leg, whereas Piriformis Syndrome pain is more concentrated in the buttock.
**Cause**: Sciatica is usually due to spinal issues, while Piriformis Syndrome is due to muscle-related compression.
**Diagnosis**: Sciatica is often diagnosed with imaging, while Piriformis Syndrome is primarily a clinical diagnosis.

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