Piriformis Syndrome: Can Massage Help Buttock and Leg Pain?

A deep ache in one buttock that sometimes runs down the back of the leg is easy to mistake for sciatica. Sometimes it is a tight piriformis, a small muscle deep in the hip. This guide explains what that means, what massage can realistically do, and when to see a doctor first.

What the Piriformis Is

The piriformis is a small muscle that runs from the base of the spine to the top of the thigh bone. It helps rotate the hip. The sciatic nerve passes close to it, and in some people through or beneath it. When the muscle is tight or irritated, it can press on that nerve and cause pain, tingling, or numbness in the buttock and leg. This is commonly called piriformis syndrome.

Piriformis Pain vs. Sciatica

Sciatica is a symptom, not a diagnosis: pain along the sciatic nerve's path, which can come from several causes, including a spinal disc problem. Piriformis syndrome is one possible cause. Typical clues for the piriformis are pain that starts in the buttock, worsens after long sitting, and eases when you stand or walk. Only a doctor can tell the causes apart. Our guide to massage for sciatica explains the broader picture.

See a Doctor First If

• Pain follows a fall or injury

• You have weakness in the leg or foot

• You notice numbness in the groin or changes in bladder or bowel control (seek urgent care)

• Pain is severe, getting worse, or doesn't improve in a couple of weeks

• Pain wakes you at night or comes with fever

Massage is not a substitute for a diagnosis. See when not to get a massage.

What Massage Can Do

If your doctor agrees it's muscular tension, massage may ease the tight tissue around the hip and buttock, which can reduce pressure and discomfort. A therapist typically works on the glutes, the outer hip, the lower back, and the hip flexors. Techniques include sustained pressure, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release. Pressure should be firm but tolerable; sharp, radiating pain means ease off. See our pressure guide.

What Massage Can't Do

Massage doesn't diagnose, and it doesn't fix a disc problem or nerve damage. Results vary, and relief is often temporary unless the cause, such as long sitting or weak hip muscles, changes too.

Between Sessions

• Break up sitting every 30 to 45 minutes

• Walk regularly

• Try gentle hip stretches your doctor or physical therapist approves

• Avoid sitting on a wallet or phone

Read more on tight hips in our hip flexor massage guide and on desk strain in lower back pain from sitting.

How Often to Book

Many people try a few sessions closer together, then space them out. See how often to get a massage.

Book With Massage by Aleks

Sessions are available at our private, appointment-only studio in Westshore, Tampa, or at your home within roughly 10 miles, with professional, insured care in Florida. Tell us where the pain is when you get in touch. Prices are on our services page.