By Dr. Skye Lee, DScPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, CMTPT — a Fellowship-trained physical therapist (fewer than 1% of PTs hold these credentials) practicing one-on-one in Columbia, MD.
Piriformis syndrome — when a deep buttock muscle irritates the sciatic nerve — causes buttock pain that can travel down the leg, often mistaken for sciatica. Piriformis syndrome treatment in Columbia, MD targets the real driver so the pain settles.
Sciatica or piriformis?
Both can cause leg pain, but the source differs — and so does the fix. A careful exam distinguishes a piriformis problem from a spine-driven sciatica, which is why a diagnosis matters.
How PT treats piriformis syndrome
- Reduce muscle spasm and nerve irritation.
- Manual therapy and targeted mobility.
- Strengthen the hips and glutes to correct mechanics.
- Address the movement habits that overload the piriformis.
What the evidence shows
Conservative care — manual therapy, stretching, and hip strengthening — helps most cases of piriformis-related pain.
Recovery timeline
Many people improve over 4–8 weeks with targeted care.
Self-care you can start today
- Avoid prolonged sitting on hard surfaces.
- Try gentle hip/glute mobility within comfort.
- Begin glute strengthening.
- Don't over-stretch into sharp nerve symptoms.
What I'll assess at your first visit in Columbia
I'll distinguish a piriformis problem from spine-driven sciatica, test hip strength and the nerve's sensitivity, and assess your gait — then target the real driver.
Related care at SKYE: Piriformis syndrome in Columbia, MD often responds well to dry needling for deep glute trigger points and manual physical therapy. You may also find my guides on sciatica and hip bursitis helpful.