Procedure Description
A piriformis muscle injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat pain and inflammation in the piriformis muscle, which is located deep in the buttock near the sciatic nerve. When the piriformis muscle becomes tight, inflamed, or spasms, it can compress or irritate the sciatic nerve, causing buttock pain and radiating leg symptoms—a condition known as piriformis syndrome.
The injection typically contains a local anesthetic to relieve pain and a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation. In some cases, botulinum toxin (Botox®) may be used to relax the muscle.
What It Treats
Piriformis muscle injections are commonly used to treat:
Piriformis syndrome
Buttock pain with or without radiation into the leg
Sciatica-like symptoms without lumbar spine involvement
Post-traumatic piriformis tightness or spasm
Pain worsened by sitting, climbing stairs, or hip rotation
Diagnostic purposes to confirm the piriformis muscle as the pain source
This procedure is often considered when physical therapy, stretching, and oral medications have not provided adequate relief.
How It Is Performed
You will lie face down on a procedure table.
The skin over the buttock is cleansed and numbed with a local anesthetic.
Using ultrasound or fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, your provider identifies the piriformis muscle.
A thin needle is inserted into the muscle, and a mixture of local anesthetic and steroid (or botulinum toxin, if indicated) is injected.
The needle is withdrawn, and a small bandage is applied.
The procedure takes about 15–30 minutes and is done in an outpatient setting.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
No fasting is needed unless sedation is planned (rare).
Continue your regular medications unless instructed otherwise. You may be asked to pause blood thinners before the procedure.
Inform your provider if you:
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Have allergies to anesthetics, steroids, or contrast dye
Have an active infection near the injection site
Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and consider bringing someone to drive you home, especially if sedation is used or mobility is affected.
What to Expect After the Procedure
You may feel immediate relief from the local anesthetic, followed by gradual improvement over several days as the steroid takes effect.
Mild soreness, bruising, or temporary increase in symptoms may occur for 24–48 hours.
You may resume light activity the same day, but avoid vigorous exercise for 24–48 hours.
If the injection is successful, your provider may recommend repeat injections, physical therapy, or botulinum toxin for longer-lasting muscle relaxation.
Call your provider if you experience:
Fever, chills, or signs of infection
Persistent numbness or weakness in the leg
Severe or worsening pain
Relieve Deep-Seated Buttock and Sciatic Nerve Pain
At Parkview Spine & Pain, we offer precise, image-guided piriformis muscle injections to help patients with buttock pain and sciatic nerve irritation regain comfort and function. Whether for diagnosis or lasting relief, this minimally invasive treatment can be a valuable part of your recovery plan.
👉 Schedule a consultation today to see if a piriformis injection is right for you.