Piriformis Syndrome

The prognosis of Piriformis Syndrome largely depends on the duration of symptoms and the degree of adhesion. 3 months after onset is a point where fibrous adhesions have not yet hardened rigidly; starting treatment at this stage allows for recovery 2 to 3 times faster than in cases where the condition has become chronic for more than 6 months. In most cases, pain significantly decreases during the 2 to 3-month treatment process, and combining it with exercise therapy to prevent recurrence results in a low recurrence rate after complete recovery. However, the treatment period may be slightly longer if there are anatomical variations (such as nerves penetrating the piriformis muscle). From a Korean medicine perspective, the three-month period is a stage where blood stasis is still fluid. By using acupuncture and moxibustion to clear the meridians in the buttocks and the back of the thighs before Qi and blood completely solidify, the piriformis muscle rapidly regains its elasticity. At Dongjedang, we track objective changes before and after treatment by measuring the thickness and echogenicity of the piriformis muscle using ultrasound. Since the recovery speed of deep muscles accelerates when the energy of the kidneys and bladder is sufficient, replenishing kidney energy through internal treatment is a strategy to expedite recovery from early-stage piriformis syndrome.