Is Walking Good or Bad for Piriformis Syndrome?

If you are suffering from piriformis syndrome, you might be feeling frustrated and confused. Many people wonder if it is okay to continue with their daily activities, especially walking.

Walking is considered one of the easiest and most accessible forms of exercise, but is it good or bad for piriformis syndrome?

What is the piriformis muscle？

The piriformis muscle is one of the smallest muscles in the hips but can cause significant pain when it is inflamed or tight. The muscle runs horizontally from the sacrum to the top of the thigh bone, helping to stabilize the hip and rotate the leg outward. Walking engages the piriformis muscle, which can lead to pain and aggravate piriformis syndrome.

Proper walking to help with piriformis syndrome

However, walking can also be beneficial for piriformis syndrome if done properly. Stretching before and after walking can help loosen the piriformis muscle and decrease tension. Walking on flat and even surfaces can also help minimize hip rotation and decrease the pressure on the piriformis muscle.

Overwalking and Its Negative Impact on Piriformis Syndrome

While walking can be beneficial for those with piriformis syndrome, overwalking can have negative consequences. Overworking the piriformis muscle can increase inflammation and tension, leading to more pain and discomfort. Overuse can also lead to the development of trigger points, which can cause pain that radiates to other areas of the body.

Overwalking can also lead to poor posture, which can contribute to the development of piriformis syndrome. When we walk longer distances, we tend to slouch forward, placing more pressure on the lower back and hips. This can increase the risk of hip imbalances and muscle strain, leading to the development of piriformis syndrome.

Is walking suitable for piriformis pain relief?

If you are already suffering from piriformis syndrome, it is not recommended to rely on walking alone to alleviate pain.

Individuals with piriformis syndrome would benefit more from focusing on massage, stretching, and rest to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

In some cases, certain individuals may need to avoid walking altogether, at least temporarily, to allow for proper healing and recovery.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Remember to always listen to your body and take the necessary steps to ensure a healthy and pain-free lifestyle.

Running and Its Effects on Piriformis Syndrome

Running is the same. While running is a high-impact exercise that can be beneficial for overall health, it can also be detrimental to those with piriformis syndrome. Running involves repetitive hip flexion and extension, which can cause the piriformis muscle to become tight and inflamed, leading to pain and discomfort.

Read Stop The Shooting Pain Around Your Hips & Piriformis Muscles From Running to learn more about the effect of running on piriformis syndrome.

Additionally, running on uneven surfaces or at excessive speeds can increase the risk of hip and muscle strain, leading to the development of piriformis syndrome. Runners should take precautions, such as stretching and using a piriformis stretcher before and after running, in order to maintain healthy hip and muscle function.