Sciatica and Deep Gluteal Syndrome

Sciatica and Deep Gluteal Syndrome (DGS) are painful conditions that affect the lower back, buttocks, and legs. They often arise from nerve irritation, muscle tightness, or structural imbalances in the spine and pelvis. If you're suffering from shooting pain, numbness, or tingling down the leg, massage therapy may be able to help ease discomfort, improve mobility, and promote healing.

Understanding Sciatica and Deep Gluteal Syndrome

What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg. It is often caused by compression of the nerve due to a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or muscle tension. Symptoms include sharp pain, numbness, and tingling in the lower back, buttocks, and legs.

What Is Deep Gluteal Syndrome (DGS)?
Deep Gluteal Syndrome is a condition where the deep muscles of the gluteal region, particularly the piriformis muscle, compress the sciatic nerve. This leads to similar symptoms as sciatica—pain, numbness, and tingling—typically localized to the buttocks and legs. DGS can occur from overuse, muscle imbalances, or trauma to the gluteal area.

How Massage Therapy Can Help:

  • Relieves Muscle Tension: Tight muscles in the lower back, hips, and glutes can place pressure on the sciatic nerve. Specialized massage techniques target these areas to release muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.
  • Improves Circulation: By enhancing blood flow to the affected areas, massage therapy helps reduce swelling and promotes faster healing of inflamed tissues.
  • Alleviates Nerve Compression: Manual therapy and neurofascial reset can relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve by relaxing the muscles around the spine, pelvis, and hips.
  • Enhances Flexibility & Mobility: Tight, overactive muscles can restrict movement. Through stretching and deep tissue work, massage therapy can restore flexibility and range of motion, improving overall mobility.
  • Reduces Inflammation: Massage can help decrease inflammation in both the soft tissues and joints, which can be a major contributor to sciatic pain and discomfort.