The most commonly overlooked source of sciatic pain is caused by impingement of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle. When this muscle, which is located under the gluteal muscles becomes tight, compression of the sciatic nerve occurs causing pain. Sciatic pain is typically experienced down the back of the leg and/or lower back and is accompanied by deep gluteal and/or hip pain. The pain usually worsens with sitting, climbing stairs, or squatting, as these motions contract the piriformis muscle further compressing the sciatic nerve. Massage therapy is a highly effective treatment for piriformis syndrome. Because massage therapy loosens restricted muscles it releases the tightened muscle that is   compressing the sciatic nerve and the pain in alleviated.

True sciatic nerve pain, which is caused by a disc herniation in the lumbar spine can be improved with gentle massage therapy, but unlike piriformis syndrome cannot be repaired with massage. Please consult your physician if you believe you may be experiencing sciatic nerve pain, as they will be able to diagnose the problem.