Piriformis Syndrome

The postures and movements that immediately worsen the symptoms of Piriformis Syndrome are as follows: ① Sitting with legs crossed: Forced internal rotation of the hip joint causes maximum elongation of the piriformis muscle → Increased compression of the sciatic nerve ② Sitting on hard chairs or floors for long periods: Continuous compression of the piriformis muscle ③ Squatting: Complex load of hip flexion and internal rotation ④ Climbing stairs or inclines: Concentrated use of external rotation muscle strength ⑤ Sudden twisting or changes in direction: Induces rapid contraction of the piriformis muscle. On the other hand, walking horizontally, swimming (freestyle), and lying-down stretching help alleviate symptoms.

Perspective of a Korean Medicine Clinic

In Korean medicine, crossing legs and squatting block the flow of meridians running through the buttocks and the back and sides of the thighs, causing further stagnation of Qi and blood. If the meridians remain compressed repeatedly, blood stasis becomes entrenched and the muscles and tendons harden even more. During Dongjedang treatment, instructing patients to avoid these postures is key to maintaining the treatment's effectiveness. Even if the meridians are opened with acupuncture or moxibustion, Qi and blood become blocked again between treatments if aggravating postures are repeated; therefore, correction of daily posture is included as part of the treatment.