Have you ever felt pain deep in your buttock that seems to travel down your leg?
You might have been told it’s your hamstring, your back, or simply “tight muscles” — but sometimes the problem can involve a small muscle called the piriformis.
In this episode of The Runner’s Sole Podcast, podiatrist and runner Sharon Miller takes a closer look at Piriformis Syndrome and what runners need to know about this often-misunderstood source of pain.
Sharon explains what the piriformis muscle actually does, why runners may experience piriformis-related pain, and how the condition can sometimes be confused with other causes of pain around the hip, buttock and leg.
She also explores an important question many runners ask:
Should you stop running?
And if you don’t stop, what can you actually do about it?
From exercises and stretching to understanding the role of the foot and lower limb, Sharon breaks down the key things runners should consider when dealing with piriformis-related symptoms.
🏃♀️ IN THIS EPISODE, SHARON COVERS:
✔ What exactly is the piriformis muscle?
✔ What is Piriformis Syndrome?
✔ Why might runners experience piriformis-related pain?
✔ How can you tell if the piriformis could be involved?
✔ When should you get assessed?
✔ Should you stop running if you’re experiencing pain?
✔ What exercises may help?
✔ Can stretching actually help?
✔ How could the foot and lower limb contribute to the problem?
✔ Why a tight piriformis may not always be the whole story
✔ What runners can do to manage their symptoms and return to running safely
👟 A PODIATRIST’S PERSPECTIVE
As runners, it’s tempting to focus on the area that hurts.
But pain doesn’t always tell the whole story.
Your feet, ankles, knees, hips and the way you move all work together when you run. Understanding that bigger picture can be an important part of figuring out why pain keeps coming back.
Sharon breaks down what runners should look out for and when it’s time to stop guessing and get properly assessed.
🎧 KEY TAKEAWAY
Piriformis-related pain can be frustrating — especially when you’re trying to keep running.
But understanding what may be causing your symptoms, when to seek an assessment, and how to approach your return to running can make a big difference.
If you’re a runner dealing with pain around your buttock, hip or leg, this episode is for you.
Listen now and learn more about Piriformis Syndrome and what runners need to know.
🔗 LINKS
🌐 The Runner’s Sole Podcast: www.runnerssole.co.uk
👟 Online Foot Consultation: www.runnerssole.co.uk
🏃 ABOUT THE RUNNER’S SOLE PODCAST
The Runner’s Sole Podcast is where running meets foot health.
Hosted by podiatrist and runner Sharon Miller, the podcast explores running injuries, foot health, footwear, training, recovery and the things runners can do to stay active and keep moving.
Because your feet aren’t just along for the ride — they’re the foundation of every step you take.