[The piriformis syndrome--a possible cause of sciatica]

In a 50-year-old patient with unilateral pain in the buttocks and in the sciatica, a radicular compression syndrome was diagnosed. Because conservative therapy failed, surgical intervention for herniated disc was suggested. Clinical examination revealed a painfully contracted piriform muscle and irritation of the sciatic nerve. Through specific stretch exercises, quick recovery was effected. Based on this case report, typical clinical diagnoses and therapeutical possibilities for the piriformis syndrome are discussed.