Hidden Cause of Low Back Pain

Injuring a major muscle , such as a hamstring, is no picnic; however, aggravating a small muscle - such as the piriformis- can sometimes pack an equally excruciating wallop.

People with piriformis syndrome typically suffer from low-back pain. Dr. Nelson notes that patients may also experience shooting pain and numbness in the buttocks, thighs or legs.

Exactly where is the piriformis?
The piriformis muscle extends along both sides of the lower buttocks. This small muscle attaches to the front of the middle pelvic bone (sacrum), passes through a hole in the pelvic bone (greater sciatic foramen) and connects to the top of the thigh bone (femur).

What is Piriformis Syndrome?
Sciatic nerves travel beneath the piriformis muscle- much like a highway underpass- on their way from the spine to the back of each leg.

Dr. Nelson describes to patients that piriformis syndrome occurs when the muscle becomes inflamed, forcing pressure on the sciatic nerve and entrapping it against the bones of the pelvis.

Along with compression of the sciatic nerve, the piriformis muscle itself is often tender and painful. Posture is also affected, with the pelvis bones (sacrum and iliac bones) moving slightly out of place. This misalignment is known as a sacroiliac subluxation.

The spinal bones of the lower back, known as the lumbar vertebrae, also tend to move slightly out of place - a condition termed vertebral subluxation.

In addition to aggravating piriformis inflammation, sacroiliac and vertebral subluxation may trigger a vast array of maladies, including back pain, leg pain, headaches, intestinal problems and infertility, explains Dr. Nelson.

Signs of Piriformis Syndrome

• Back pain
• Pain down the back of the thigh or leg
• Numbness in the leg or foot
• Aching or numbness in the buttock
• Aching or numbness in the thigh
• Pain made worse by sitting, squatting or walking
• Pain after driving long distances
• One foot that rolls in more than the other
• Pain aggravated by sports activities

Dr. Curtis Nelson,

Nelson Chiropractic Office      (425-)867-1119

www.nelsonchiro.com

16250 NE 80th Street , Redmond WA 98052

Muscle Problems

Although a certain degree of tension in a muscle is necessary, too much tension can create imbalance, functional restrictions and/or pain. Whether it is caused by stress, overuse, repetitive strain or acute trauma, abnormal muscle tightness is unhealthy for your body. It places an excessive amount of stress and strain on the joints involved, predisposing them to arthritis and early degeneration. In addition, many nerves and blood vessels pass directly through muscle. If the muscle is too tight, this can irritate the nerves or compress the blood vessels, causing numbness, tingling, pain or decreased circulation.
 
Problems in muscles are usually quite obvious, as direct touching of the affected areas is usually uncomfortable for the patient. Tight muscles located in your spine may contribute to vertebral subluxations. Misalignment of the vertebrae is particularly damaging, as this can cause irritation of the nerves exiting the spine. This can further disturb normal muscle function, leading to more symptoms. Thankfully, chiropractic adjustments are particularly effective at reducing nerve irritation caused by spinal joint dysfunction!