Piriformis Syndrome & Cycling

By Ethan Farr, Sports Myotherapist & Exercise Scientist

Piriformis syndrome is characterised by pain and discomfort in the buttocks, typically caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve near the piriformis muscle. It can also cause referred pain into the leg, including sharp or aching pain, pins & needles, numbness or tingling in the leg or foot.
This is a condition we see often in people who cycle due to the position on the bike, but can also be seen in other highly physically active sports, too.

In over 80% of the population, the sciatic nerve runs deep to and exits underneath the piriformis muscle.
Early divisions of the sciatic nerve can predispose patients to piriformis syndrome, with these branches passing through either below or above the piriformis muscle.
Runners, cyclists, and rowers are at the highest risk for piriformis syndrome due to their engagement in activities that involve pure forward movement. These activities can weaken the hip adductors and abductors, which are crucial for opening and closing the legs.

The piriformis muscle can become tight from prolonged sitting, a common issue among working people, and this is particularly pertinent for long-distance cyclists, who are exposed to two of these predisposing factors.
Additionally, the repetitive motion of cycling primarily engages the hip flexors and extensors while neglecting the hip abductors and adductors. This imbalance can further strain the piriformis muscle and contribute to its tightness.
Furthermore, the posture adopted during cycling—leaning forward with hips flexed—can exacerbate the compression of the sciatic nerve against the piriformis muscle. This compression can result in pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates down the leg, mimicking symptoms of sciatica.

For long-distance cyclists, who spend extended periods in the saddle and engage in pure forward movement, the risk of developing piriformis syndrome is heightened.
The combination of prolonged sitting, repetitive motion, and muscle imbalance underscores the importance of preventive measures such as proper bike fit, regular stretching routines targeting hip muscles, and incorporating cross-training activities to maintain overall muscular balance.


By understanding these predisposing factors and implementing appropriate preventive strategies, cyclists can mitigate the risk of developing piriformis syndrome and maintain their performance and comfort during cycling activities.

How we can help:
Myotherapy supports through the focus on addressing muscle imbalances, tightness, and overuse issues that commonly afflict cyclists due to the repetitive nature of their sport.

Techniques such as deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, myofascial dry needling, and myofascial release are effective in releasing tension in these muscles, improving flexibility, and restoring proper alignment.

These therapies can enhance blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, which aids in the removal of metabolic waste products and reduces inflammation. This can significantly accelerate the recovery process after intense cycling sessions or competitions.

By incorporating regular remedial massage or myotherapy sessions into their training regimen, cyclists can proactively manage muscle tightness and imbalances. This proactive approach not only helps in preventing injuries like piriformis syndrome but also promotes overall muscle health and performance efficiency.

So if you would like to not only reduce any pain you experience or reduce your risk of overwork injuries whilst also improve your cycling performance make sure you book in with me for an assessment and to start your treatment plan.

I'm available Tuesdays 8am-12pm, Thursdays 12.30pm-7pm, and Sundays 9am-3.30pm at Simple Wellness Myotherapy.

​We are located at Shop 12B/150 Kelletts Rd, Rowville VIC 3178 or you can call us on (03) 8204 0970