Pyramidal Syndrome Or False Sciatica, What Does It Consist Of?
Pyramidal syndrome is also called false sciatica because it causes symptoms that are mistaken for low back pain. It occurs due to an overload of the pyramidal muscle that ends in contracture of the same, with the consequent compression of the sciatic nerve.
This pathology is more frequent among women and its highest incidence occurs around 40 and 50 years. However, it can appear at any age. In fact, although it is associated with runners and athletes, poor posture is another possible source.
The difference between pyramidal syndrome and real sciatica is very important. Both the complications and the treatment will be different in relation to whether it is one entity or another.
What is the pyramidal syndrome or false sciatica?
The pyramidal muscle is a small anatomical structure found in the pelvis. It receives this name because it is shaped like a triangle, which begins in the sacrum and extends to the femur. It is part of the gluteus and is responsible for the external rotation movement of the leg.
The sciatic nerve, for its part, has a path that takes it to the leg, contacting this muscle. In fact, there are people with a particular constitution, in whom the nerve crosses the pyramidal muscle. So much so, that the space that remains between both structures is very small.
In pyramidal syndrome, the muscle increases in size and compresses the sciatic nerve. This increase may be due to muscle overload, for example, due to exercise. Also contractures are guilty.
On the other hand, in true sciatica, the nerve is compressed in a real way in the upper part of its course, generally with contact on the vertebrae of the spine. Sciatic pain is more permanent, insidious, and persistent.
As a difference, the pyramidal syndrome or false sciatica tends to be somewhat transitory. As it is a muscle contracture or overload, time resolves it. But in low back pain, herniated discs are the main cause, and therefore they become chronic.
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.OkPrivacy policy