Does cortisone injection treat piriformis syndrome?

Piriformis syndrome refers to irritation around the sciatic nerve near the deep buttock muscles. Pain may spread into the back of the thigh and can worsen with sitting, running, or certain hip movements. Similar symptoms can come from the lower back, hip joint, or another nerve problem. A careful history and physical examination are therefore needed before an injection is considered. Cortisone may settle local inflammation while rehabilitation addresses movement and muscle loading.

Ask about a programme of graded hip strength, mobility, posture changes, and activity pacing. Avoid repeatedly provoking the pain while maintaining comfortable movement. Tell the clinician about infection, diabetes, blood-thinning medicine, allergies, or previous injections. If an injection is offered, clarify the target, aftercare, and how progress will be judged. Persistent symptoms may require reassessment of the lower back or hip rather than repeated treatment at the same site.

Seek urgent help for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the saddle area, or rapidly worsening weakness in a leg. Prompt assessment is also needed for fever, a hot swollen injection area, or severe pain after treatment. Arrange review when pain, tingling, or walking difficulty continues or worsens.

Ask what evidence points to piriformis syndrome, whether your back and hip have been assessed, how physiotherapy will support recovery, and what warning signs require urgent care.