Could your low back pain, or sciatica be caused by something as simple as an tight piriformis muscle? The answer to that question is a simple YES! This little muscle can lead to back pain, hip pain, as well as sciatica. So first off lets explain a little about where the piriformis is, and what it does? The piriformis is a small muscle that attaches from the anterior side of your sacrum, and runs to the greater trochanter of the femur. The piriformis helps to rotate your leg laterally, as well as abducting the femur.
So now that we know a little about what the piriformis is, what kind of stretches can I add to my morning routine to help alleviate some of the symptoms, and discomfort? Here are two very simple ways that one can stretch the piriformis muscle.
- Lie on the back with both feet flat on the floor and both knees bent. Pull the right knee up to the chest, grasp the knee with the left hand and pull it towards the left shoulder and hold the stretch. Repeat for each side.
- Lie on the back with both feet flat on the floor and both knees bent. Rest the ankle of the right leg over the knee of the left leg. Pull the left thigh toward the chest and hold the stretch. Repeat for each side.
Both of these stretches are great ways to alleviate some of the pain and discomfort the piriformis muscle can cause in the lower back and hip. If you would like to talk about the stretches, or other issues your are having give us a call at (952)456-6611, or visit Brooks Chiropractic for more information.