PMR and piriformis syndrome

Hi @kimberlynitz66, I have not experienced piriformis syndrome with PMR but from what I've read the pain is excruciating. I've never read of a connection between PMR and piriformis but hopefully others may be able to share their experience and what has helped. My thoughts are that PT may be the best option but may be easier said than done.

I'm wondering if these are the exercises your PT therapist had you do.
-- 7 Best Stretches and Exercises for Piriformis Syndrome: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/piriformis-syndrome-stretches-exercises/

@sueinmn discussed the PT and exercise in a post in another discussion here - https://connect.mayoclinic.org/comment/685133/

I have had Periformis syndrome for 20 years. My PMR is recent. Massage, physical therapy, ibuprofen, and stretching help. Also I have to be careful bending over too much especially gardening. The prednisone has actually helped the Periformis Syndrome.

Yes those are the exercises, together with some core stretches. It's been 6 weeks with no change so far.

I'm not surprised that prednisone, a powerful anti-inflammatory, helps your Piriformis Syndrome.
I have also learned, through hard experience, that the stretching is a "forever" thing. If I get lazy about it, back comes the pain. I do a complete stretching routine before getting out of bed in the morning, and more after I shower.
Piriformis pain can also be related to hip issues and arthritis in the back.
Sue

I contracted a mild case of PMR in March 2021 and that is also when my hip started bothering me. It flared up into sciatica (following a flu) and I'm still dealing with mild pan and limited hip and knee mobility. I've tried PT, Chiropractic therapy, massage, and acupuncture, which all seemed to aggravate it. I recently tried aquatic therapy and that seemed to help for a couple of days (I need to find a way to do it at least 3 times a week). My x-rays show signs of osteoarthritis, which could be part of my pain, but not likely the pain that travels down my outer shin to my ankle.
I recently saw a DO, who thinks it could be piriformis syndrome, but the stretches and exercises she gave me seemed to aggravate it. I have been taking low doses of Prednisone since July of 2021 and tried tapering off it twice, but my shoulder pain returned. I am currently taking 2 mg./day, but will taper to 1 mg. next week. The prednisone may actually be relieving my hip, knee, and sciatica pain--not quite certain.
Anyone who has similar experiences, please share. Thanks.

Hello, New here to this format. I've had piriformis for over a year now. Have to agree, pain is excruciating!!! Down my right leg to my ankle bone. Sometimes I have NO pain, other times, I can't put any weight on my leg at all. I went for PT, seemed to help for awhile, then it's back to square one. From reading the posts here, sounds like there's not much more to be done other than PT, stretching & taking prednisone (which I did, as prescribed but no help at all). I'm thinking of making an appointment with a neurologist - not sure if I'll get any relief but, at this point, I'll try anything. I'm 74 & in pretty good health, except for this, stops me in my tracks sometimes, can hardly breathe with the pain. It's changing my quality of life, doesn't make me a happy camper!! Which, by the way, hubby & I do & it affects those plans too!! Looking forward to any & all feedback from this group. Have a great day all!

Hi @peg806, Welcome to Connect. You might also find the following discussion helpful:
-- Piriformis Syndrome: How were you diagnosed and what helps?:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/piriformis-syndrome/

Was the prednisone prescribed for PMR or for your piriformis?

I second that question: Do you have PMR? Also, don't give up on your PT. It really depends on how knowledgable the doc is. I have been to several places and standard of care really varies. You need someone really trained and who can train you to help yourself. If you do have PMR, it adds another layer of problems. Best wishes.