Mississauga and Oakville Pain Clinic offering chiropractic, physiotherapy, massage therapy and orthotic services to residents of Churchill Meadows InMississauga
Mississauga and Oakville Pain Clinic offering chiropractic, physiotherapy, massage therapy and orthotic services to residents of Churchill Meadows InMississauga
Deep Gluteal Syndrome (DGS) is a condition that often sneaks under the radar. Characterized by pain in the buttock area due to the entrapment of the sciatic nerve, this condition isn’t rooted in the spinal discs or pelvis but instead in the structures within the deep gluteal space. While the name may sound technical, the impact is very real, affecting one’s ability to sit, walk, and go about daily life comfortably. Thankfully, there are effective treatments, including chiropractic care, physiotherapy, and massage therapy, that can help alleviate the discomfort and improve quality of life.
The deep gluteal space is a complex anatomical area bordered by muscles, ligaments, and bones. Within this space, the sciatic nerve can become compressed or irritated by nearby structures, such as the piriformis muscle, fibrous bands, gluteal muscles, or even vascular abnormalities (Martin et al., 2015).
Previously referred to as piriformis syndrome, DGS encompasses a broader range of possible causes for sciatic nerve entrapment. Symptoms often include:
– Persistent buttock pain, especially while sitting or walking.
– Burning, tingling, or cramping sensations radiating down the leg.
– Weakness or abnormal reflexes in the lower limbs.
Diagnosing DGS involves a thorough history, physical examination, and sometimes imaging techniques to rule out other causes, such as lumbar spine issues or intra-pelvic conditions. Common tests include:
– Piriformis Stretch Test: Identifies pain reproduction in the gluteal area.
– Active Piriformis Test: Evaluates external rotation and abduction for signs of sciatic nerve irritation.
– Imaging Tests: MRI or high-resolution imaging may be used to detect abnormalities in the gluteal space (Martin et al., 2015).
Treating DGS often involves conservative, non-surgical approaches. Here’s how different therapies can help:
– Chiropractic Care
Chiropractors focus on restoring alignment and mobility to the spine and pelvis, which may reduce tension in the gluteal region. Techniques such as spinal adjustments and joint mobilizations can alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve and improve overall biomechanics.
– Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy aims to strengthen and stretch the muscles around the gluteal area, including the piriformis. A targeted rehabilitation program can include:
– Stretching exercises to lengthen tight muscles.
– Strengthening routines to support hip stability.
– Nerve glides to promote sciatic nerve mobility.
– Massage Therapy
Deep tissue massage can relax tight gluteal muscles and break down scar tissue, reducing sciatic nerve irritation. A skilled therapist can also address trigger points and improve blood flow, speeding up recovery.
While professional care is essential, some stretches can help relieve DGS symptoms:
– Seated Piriformis Stretch: Sit on a chair, cross the affected leg over the other, and gently pull your knee towards the opposite shoulder.
– Knee-to-Chest Stretch: Lie on your back, bring one knee to your chest, and hold for 20-30 seconds.
Living with deep gluteal syndrome can be challenging, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. At the Muscle and Joint Clinic, our team of chiropractors, physiotherapists, and massage therapists specializes in treating conditions like DGS. We’re here to guide you through a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your pain.
Schedule a free consultation today to learn how we can help you get back to living pain-free. Take the first step toward a healthier, more comfortable life—it’s time to prioritize your well-being!
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Martin, H. D., Reddy, M., & Gómez-Hoyos, J. (2015). Deep gluteal syndrome. Journal of Hip Preservation Surgery, 2(2), 99–107. https://doi.org/10.1093/jhps/hnv029