The piriformis muscle syndrome is a condition characterized by symptoms resulting from compression and irritation of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle. Its typical and predominant symptoms include severe pain in the buttocks, repeatedly radiating to the lower limb which intensifies mainly in a sitting position. Diagnosis first includes ruling out neurological and orthopedic causes, as well as performing functional tests. In most cases, conservative methods prevail in the treatment process.

The role of the piriformis muscle in sciatic nerve entrapment is very important, there are close relationships between muscles and vessels and nerves. In the case of piriformis muscle syndrome: pain symptoms, muscle disorders (increased resting tension, increased tissue sensitivity), but also symptoms resulting from irritation of the sciatic nerve (sensory and motor) are fully understood. Knowing the above anatomical relationships and the principles of tensegration, it is possible to apply a therapeutic massage called "tensegrity massage" in this case. Tensegrity massage is applied with elements of diagnosis, with an individual approach to the patient taking into account his current condition, and with a strictly defined treatment methodology. Massage can be an effective method of reducing pain in the case of piriformis syndrome and an alternative form of conservative treatment. 

Iwona Wilk completed her doctoral studies (PhD) at the University of Health and Sport Sciences in Wrocław, of Poland at the age of 36. She is an academic teacher at the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Health and Sport Sciences in Wroclaw. She has 60 publications on the use of massage in musculoskeletal dysfunctions, massage in pediatrics and in the elderly.