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Piriformis Syndrome: Exercises

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Introduction

Here are some examples of exercises for you to try. The exercises may be suggested for a condition or for rehabilitation. Start each exercise slowly. Ease off the exercises if you start to have pain.

You will be told when to start these exercises and which ones will work best for you.

How to do the exercises

Hip internal rotator stretch

slide 1 of 3
slide 1 of 3, Hip internal rotator stretch,
  1. Lie on your back with both knees bent and your feet flat on the floor.
  2. Put the ankle of your affected leg on your opposite thigh near your knee.
  3. Use your hand to gently push your knee away from your body until you feel a gentle stretch around your hip.
  4. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds.
  5. Repeat 2 to 4 times.
  6. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other leg.

Piriformis stretch (from legs straight)

slide 2 of 3
slide 2 of 3, Piriformis stretch (from legs straight),
  1. Lie on your back with your legs straight.
  2. Lift your affected leg and bend your knee. With your opposite hand, gently pull your knee toward your opposite shoulder. You should feel the stretch in your buttock and hip.
  3. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds.
  4. Repeat 2 to 4 times.
  5. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other leg.

Lower abdominal strengthening

slide 3 of 3
slide 3 of 3, Lower abdominal strengthening,
  1. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor.
  2. Tighten your belly muscles by pulling your belly button in toward your spine. Keep breathing normally and don't hold your breath.
  3. Lift one foot off the floor and bring your knee toward your chest, so that your knee is straight above your hip and your leg is bent like the letter "L."
  4. Lift the other knee up to the same position.
  5. Lower one leg at a time to the starting position.
  6. Keep alternating legs until you have lifted each leg 8 to 12 times.

Keep your belly muscles tight and your back still as you are moving your legs. Keep breathing normally.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.