Once every year or two I encounter that tightness in one of my…well how should I say this…butt cheek’s. It is that darn piriformis muscle acting up again. Rarely has this stopped me from running especially if I address the issue early on.

Here are nine different methods I have used when my piriformis tightens up.

1. Tennis ball massage – Lay on top of the tennis ball and allow it to put deep tissue pressure in the tender area by using your body weight. This can be a bit uncomfortable but I try to relax my body as much as I can with a few deep breaths.
2. Foam Roller – Really trying to massage the piriformis area (yes, your butt) daily.
3. Piriformis Stretch – 2-4 times per day.
4. Outward leg lifts – While laying on your side, raise top leg 1-2 ft for 20-30 reps (for 2 sets). Then repeat for other leg.
5. Running form focus – Sometimes my legs start to get lazy and the inside of my knees will rub periodically. I pay attention to my form and make sure my legs remain in alignment (not drooping inwards).
6. Chiropractor – A good crack to make sure the core of my body is in proper alignment.
7. Professional massage – An hour of deep tissue work has produced some amazing results.
8. Reduce mileage and focus on the above seven items.
9. Stop Running – If I am in continual discomfort while running, I will stop running for a couple days and really work on the above items.

How have you handled this pain in the butt issue?

Be active – Feel the buzz!

David – EnduranceBuzz.com

Spread the Buzz!

Related Articles:

• No Related Post

Add Your Comment »

Trackback URI | Subscribe to the comments through RSS Feed