Stretches for the Piriformis Muscle and How Physical Therapy Can Help

Almost every treatment approach for piriformis syndrome will include a focus on carefully stretching the piriformis muscle and gaining flexibility over time.

Stretches for Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis stretches
There are a multiple ways to stretch the piriformis muscle. Two of the easiest ways include:

• Lie on your back with both feet flat on the floor and both knees bent. Then, pull your right knee up to the chest, grasp your knee with your left hand and pull it towards your left shoulder and hold the stretch. Repeat for each side.
• Lie on your back with both feet flat on the floor and both knees bent. Rest your ankle of the right leg over the knee of the left leg. Pull the left thigh toward the chest and hold the stretch. Repeat for each side.

Each piriformis stretch should be held for 5 seconds in the beginning. Then, slowly increased your hold for 30 seconds. Be sure to repeate three times each day.

Physical Therapy for Piriformis Syndrome

In addition to basic stretching, a well put together physical therapy and exercise program can be developed for each patient’s individual needs.

Range of motion exercises
A physical therapist can develop a customized program of stretching and range of motion exercises to help stretch the muscle and decrease spasm. This program will be created specific for the care that you need.

Deep Massage
Deep massage, manual release, by a physical therapist is said to enhance healing by simply increasing blood flow to the area in need and decreasing muscle spasm.

Thinking about physical therapy? Please call or schedule a free assessment with HealthQuest Physical Therapy today. We’ll work together to put together the stretching routine that’s best for you!