Yoga for Piriformis Syndrome
The piriformis muscle connects the femur bone to the sacral spine. Lack of proper stretching techniques before and after exercise, bad posture, weakened muscles and poor running habits can all contribute to piriformis syndrome. According to Dr. Mary Pullig Schatz, "a regular yoga practice may alleviate symptoms of sciatica," a nerve condition directly affected by a tight piriformis muscle.
Significance
Many yoga poses deeply stretch the external rotators, which include the piriformis muscle.
Considerations
A yoga student who suffers from piriformis syndrome should build up to holding piriformis-stretching poses for at least one minute or longer.
Benefits
Variations of Pigeon pose---standing, supine and prone---as well as Eagle, Reclining Twist and Half Lord of the Fishes are most effective in stretching the piriformis muscle.
Prevention
Because yoga focuses on deep stretching, it is a good preventive measure against piriformis syndrome for runners, cyclists, dancers or anyone who sits for long periods of time.
Warning
Proper alignment and the use of props during a yoga practice are the best tools for a yoga student with piriformis syndrome. You should also work closely with a doctor and/or physical therapist to determine the root cause of the condition.
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