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The Piriformis is a small muscle of the pelvis which turns the leg outward. It may be one potential cause of pain in the buttocks and back of leg. The pain may be gradual and have no known cause. The sciatic nerve is often compressed in piriformis syndrome resulting in pain down the back of the leg. In some people the sciatic nerve actually runs through the piriformis muscle. Myofascial release techniques are often helpful in reducing tension in the piriformis. Chiropractic adjustments to the sacro-iliac joints may also be helpful in treatment. The piriformis is also able to be stretched by crossing the legs and pulling one knee to the chest.

The sacro-iliac joints are the main joints that transmit the weight of the spine and upper body to the hips and legs. The sacro-iliac (SI) joints are located just below the belt line and are about three inches long. Pain in the SI joints may present suddenly after straightening from a stooped position. The pain may also radiate down the back of the leg similar to sciatic type pain. The pain is often sharp and stabbing and relieved by sitting or lying. It has been estimated that SI problems account for almost half of lower back pain cases. Persons with SI pain are often able to experience dramatic relief from Chiropractic treatment.

It is estimated that 80% of adults will experience lower back pain in their lives. The one month prevalence of lower back pain is estimated at 35%. The disc is one of the most common causes and accounts for about 40% of lower back pain. The sacro-iliac joints are also a common cause of lower back pain and often respond very well to Chiropractic adjustments. A UCLA study of Lower Back pain rated Chiropractic care for lower back pain higher in patient satisfaction than medical care. Most cases of lower back pain can resolve within three weeks with appropriate management. A typical plan of care for lower back pain would involve 4-8 treatments over a 2-3 week span. Home exercises such as walking and the pelvic tilt exercise may also be helpful.

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