The piriformis muscle is located deep in the hip and extends in close proximity to the sciatic nerve. Upon becoming tight and/or swollen, it can lead to irritation of the sciatic nerve. This irritation causes sciatica-like pain, numbness, and tingling.…

The piriformis is a muscle that lies behind the hip joint in the buttocks. The piriformis muscle is tiny in comparison to other muscles around the thigh and hip. This muscle helps in external rotation (turning out) of the hip…

The average patient with piriformis syndrome complains of “sciatica,” which is severe, sharp, radiating pain from the lower buttock or back extending down the leg and into the thigh, calf, and foot. Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board…

Piriformis Syndrome Piriformis syndrome refers to a neuromuscular disorder that occurs when the piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve. The piriformis muscle is a band-like and flat muscle that is located in the butt near the top of the hip…

In Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), the “ball and socket” joint of the hip does not develop appropriately in babies and young children. Therefore, it is also known as congenital hip dislocation or hip dysplasia. The hip joint connects…

Hip impingement, also called femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), causes the abnormal and wearing contact between the hip joint’s ball and socket. In this condition, there is increased friction during hip motions which may damage the joint. Patients usually experience pain in…

Labral Tears The labrum of the hip refers to a ring of cartilage around the socket of the hip joint (the acetabulum) which provides stability and cushioning to the hip. Labral tears may develop due to structural abnormalities, injury or…

Femoral Osteotomy Femoral osteotomy refers to a surgical procedure to correct specific femur (the long bone in the upper part of the leg) and hip joint deformities. In this procedure, the orthopedic surgeon cuts the bone and realigns it to…