Sitting applies direct pressure on the buttock muscles, such as the piriformis muscle. Buttock pain while sitting is a classic symptom of piriformis syndrome.
Buttock pain while sitting may be relieved by following these tips:
If you have buttock pain due to piriformis syndrome, avoid sitting for long periods and take short walks or alternate between sitting and standing, if possible.
- Sit with a neutral, upright spine and avoid slumping or bending forward to help distribute weights evenly through the spine and across the pelvis.
- Ensure your feet are flat on the ground and your thighs are parallel to the floor.
- Use a footstool, if needed, to elevate the feet and reduce pressure on the pelvis and legs.
- Adjust the armrest of your chair so that it just slightly lifts your arms at the shoulders and helps take the strain off the shoulder and upper back.
- Place a rolled-up towel or lumbar support cushion to help maintain the arch in the lower back and prevent slumping forward.
- Avoid sitting in a cross- legged position, which may further irritate the piriformis muscle and sciatic nerve.
