Originally Posted by
Igualmente
Yes, that can be an issue. I wonder if you have exhausted all avenues. I have in the past, under care of a physiotherapist for an injury, been told to keep taking anti-inflammatories while doing physio. I've also done myofascial/trigger-point releases prior to stretching. Also, there are several variations on piriformis stretches. I wonder if you can see a doctor and a physiotherapist for that. Of course, you may have already gone down those roads.
Also, one theory on the cause of piriformis syndrome is that other hip area muscles are not activating properly. Perhaps working on your gluteus medius would help, assuming you don't aggravate the sciatica. Again, a physiotherapist could advise there. There is also information about movements like the side-lying clam that can help activate the gluteus medius.
Lastly, if hamstrings are an issue, you should be able to do something there without aggravating sciatica. Aside from gentle stretching (there is controversy over the value or harm of aggressive stretching), if you are in a seated position all day long at work with your hamstrings contracted, you may want to look at how you can have your hamstrings in a different and longer position without really doing stretching.
I have had two serious episodes, the first lasted about 6 months (was triggered by taking up yoga), and the second about 1 month (after taking up riding again). On both occasions my mobility was significantly restricted and the most recent was the most severe. Sitting, standing, laying down - I couldn't find relief. Quitting yoga brought on relief for the first episode but quitting riding was not an option for me. At first I tried the stretches, myofascial release and NSAIDs while taking it easy on the bike. This only brought short-term relief, like maybe 12 hrs, and then the pain and tightness would return. So I stopped riding altogether and continued on with the stretches etc. with again no real improvement. After doing a load of research online I scrapped the treatments and did nothing. This is where I started to get relief. I got back on the bike and increased my saddle time very slowly and so far (for about 2 months) I've been pretty good with only minor twinges.
Since performing the hamstring test as you suggested, I've tried several other tests for muscle tightness, flexibility and imbalance. It is the hamstring that is way out of whack!!! The left is a ton more flexible than the right - I can stretch it about 6-8 inches more than the right with my knees straight. So I thank you for that, as I now have some valuable information for understanding my butt pain.
I have already read through Steve Hogg's bike fit site, though perhaps I will revisit it and read a little more. At this point I'm just trying to determine the best course of action as again there is conflicting advice about stretching one's hamstrings. When I do even light stretching of the right hamstring I can feel my piriformis protesting so it makes me a little nervous. Unfortunately, I cannot afford PT. I am more of a DIY kinda gal anyways, though I'm not so stubborn as to not at least visit a DR. when things get serious.
Again thanks so much for the feedback. It was exactly what I was after.