Acupuncture for Piriformis Syndrome
Acupuncture for Piriformis Syndrome
Table of Contents
What is Piriformis Syndrome?
Piriformis syndrome happens when the piriformis muscle, deep in the buttocks, presses on the nearby sciatic nerve. This can cause discomfort, often mistaken for sciatica. The piriformis itself is a small, pear-shaped muscle that runs diagonally across the buttocks, connecting the lower spine to the top of the thigh bone. It helps rotate the hip and stabilize lower-body movement. When the muscle is tight or not working the way it should, it can affect nearby nerves and cause pain or other issues.
What Causes Piriformis Syndrome?
- Repetitive movements. Activities like running, biking, or climbing stairs can strain the piriformis muscle, especially if there’s not enough rest or stretching.
- Sitting for too long. Sitting for long periods reduces blood flow and puts excessive pressure on the piriformis, which can cause tension and trigger points.
- Hip issues or moving improperly. Weakness in surrounding muscles (like the glutes or core) can lead the piriformis to overwork, making it too tight and irritated over time.
If You Are Worried About Piriformis Syndrome, Make an Appointment With Us!
Piriformis Syndrome Symptoms
- Pain or ache in one side of the butt
- Numbness that runs down the leg
- Pain that gets worse when you sit, walk, or go up stairs
- Soreness when you move your hip or stay in one position too long
- Overly tender butt muscles
- Stiffness or trouble moving your back, hip, or leg
- Weak feeling in your leg or hip
- Usually shows up more on one side than the other
- Low back or hip pain that can travel down the leg
- Unpleasant sensation in your back, butt, or legs, especially after sitting too long or moving a certain way
Can Acupuncture Help Piriformis Syndrome?
When needles are placed directly into tight areas of the piriformis (or nearby gluteal muscles), they can disrupt the abnormal tension and stimulate a “reset.” Here’s how it works: that tiny stimulation triggers nerves in the muscle, those nerves send signals to the spinal cord and brain, and the body responds by releasing endorphins and other natural pain‑modulating chemicals.
At the same time, acupuncture for piriformis syndrome triggers increased blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients, while flushing waste and inflammatory by‑products from the muscle. This helps reduce local inflammation and supports tissue recovery.
Because many cases of piriformis syndrome are caused by muscle tightness, trigger points, or myofascial dysfunction, acupuncture works well by:
- releasing knots and tight fibers,
- calming irritated nerves (especially the nearby sciatic nerve),
- reducing muscle inflammation and tension,
- improving circulation and recovery.
Benefits of Acupuncture for Piriformis Syndrome
- Eases pain naturally. Piriformis syndrome acupuncture helps your body release its own painkillers and relax tight muscles that press on the sciatic nerve.
- Calms inflammation. It helps reduce swelling and irritation around the piriformis muscle.
- Releases tight spots. Targeting trigger points loosens tight muscles and makes movement easier.
- Helps nerve function better. It can reduce nerve irritation, which often means less pain or weakness in the leg.
- Makes moving easier. As muscles relax and pain goes down, it’s easier to walk, sit, or stretch without discomfort.
- Safe for long-term use. No drugs, no major side effects. It’s gentle enough for ongoing treatment for as long as you wish.
- Can be added to other care. Works well with physical therapy, massage, exercise plans, wet cupping, fire cupping, moxibustion, you name it.
Learn How Pulse Acupuncture and Wellness Can Help With Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis pain can make everyday movement harder. At Pulse Acupuncture and Wellness, we help release tight muscles, calm nerves, and ease pain using simple, yet efficient hands-on methods. One of the tools we use is electroacupuncture, which sends small pulses through the needles to relax trigger points and reduce inflammation.
Every session is based around you and how you feel. We’ll adjust your treatment to match your pain. If other treatments haven’t helped, this might be the support you need.
We’re a trusted acupuncture clinic with locations in Clifton, NJ, and Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Want to see if acupuncture can help? Reach out and schedule a visit with our team.
Why Pulse Acupuncture?
Experience
Marina Doktorman, L.Ac. has over 20 years of clinical experience.
RELAXATION
At Pulse Acupuncture, we aim to cultivate a spa-like environment.
Comfort
All of our needles are of the highest quality for painless insertion.
Patient Reviews
My experience with Marina's work has been incredible. After the first few sessions, I immediately noticed a decrease in my endometriosis symptoms. I also struggle with CPTSD and anxiety-- and have felt extremely lighter since seeing her. She is thorough and knows what she is doing. I go twice a week and will eventually start tapering my sessions, but think it is imperative to go often when first starting out. I am addicted to her practice and cannot recommend her more!
I am extremely particular with massages and the massage therapist name Inna at Pulse Acupuncture is absolutely incredible. She is intuitive, skillful, informative and has great bedside manners. The best massage I've experienced in NYC. I highly recommend Inna.
I had been struggling with persistent back pain and frequent migraines that significantly impacted my daily life. After trying various treatments with limited success, I turned to acupuncture and began sessions with Dr. Marina. Her attentive and knowledgeable approach immediately put me at ease. Through her expert care, I experienced a remarkable reduction in both my back pain and migraine frequency. Dr. Marina's dedication and skill have truly made a positive difference in my well-being, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking relief through acupuncture.
Dr.Marina has helped me multiple times, every time I go to her with a goal to improve my health or whatever aliment I am dealing with, she always helps alleviate it. She’s helped balance my hormones, helped me with a spell of insomnia etc. she really is so amazing and I will continue to go to her because she truly knows what she is doing! If you have any issue, I think dr.marina can help in her practice, she really is amazing and I’m so thankful for her!
Marina is a well-trained and talented therapist. I see her in her Clifton, NJ, office. Parking is always adequate. Several therapy rooms are available; they are comfortable and well-eqipped. I find Marina to be empathetic, a good listener, and a good diagnostician.She draws on her extensive knowledge and experience to tailor-make each treatment to alleviate the ailments presented. I find Marina's acupuncture skills to be effective. I look forward to our sessions and I highly recommend her!
Amazing experience! Marina is knowledgeable and professional. She has created a very relaxing vibe in her studio that makes the appointment feel like amazing self care. I’m 40 weeks + 3 days pregnant and felt very comfortable with the table set up and also trusted that she knew what she was doing.
Such a soothing environment and Marina is very professional. She explains everything that she is going to do. While I know I need more sessions, I noticed today that I was already able to walk further than before with significantly less pain after the 1st session. What a blessing!!
Marina has been treating me in Clifton for about 6 months for chronic pain. I must say she is extremely knowledgeable and has helped to quiet my deep muscle spasms. As an unexpected bonus, the acupuncture had also helped muscle atrophy from a surgery I had over 12 years ago.
Marina is very accommodating, kind, and attentive, and her staff is a pleasure to deal with. I highly recommend Pulse.
Marina is very accommodating, kind, and attentive, and her staff is a pleasure to deal with. I highly recommend Pulse.
My experience was phenomenal, I had fire cupping done for the first time, an absolute life changing experience. 🙌
The session was great. I’m dealing with sciatica issues and during one session I was able to receive full body acupuncture, cupping , electro pulse therapy and a stress reading. All very helpful for my pain. Highly recommend.
I love Marina and her team. I have been struggling with feeling nauseous and fatigue after going through an IVF cycle and going twice a week has been working wonders for me. It’s literally the difference between being able to function and not function in life. I can’t recommend Pulse enough!
Exceptional service. Clean and calming rooms. Easy billing/insurance process. Would recommend!
Best Accupuncture in Williamsburg! Marina Laryssa are fantastic. Helped relieve pain for my marathon preparation assisting with Plantar fasciitis ITBs and stress. Great experience, very friendly, would highly recommend visiting them.
I have been very happy with the services of Pulse Acupuncture, the pain I have has greatly decreased with the Acupuncture.
Laryssa was fantastic. i can’t ever remember a provider taking the time and attention to my specific issues. highly recommend!
Marina is very professional, caring and extremely knowledgable. The office is peaceful and welcoming. I highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture for holistic care.
Laryssa is very empathetic and clearly cares about her patients. She’s passionate about her job and wants her patients to feel better. I’ve been seen by Marina a couple of times when Laryssa wasn’t there and I can say the same for her. Overall I highly recommend this acupuncture office.
I have been doing acupuncture consistently for 3.5 years, started with Marina almost 3 years ago and also started seeing Larissa this last year.
Acupuncture has truly changed my life and has helped me in ways I didn’t even know were possible.
I started doing acupuncture to balance my hormones after 2 years of unsuccessful fertility treatments. When I started seeing Marina, my periods were starting to be regular and I was dealing with a few different symptoms which we started treating right away (constipation, random headaches, body aches)… in the last 3 years I have not been sick (no flu, have never tested positive for COVID) - Marina even treated me for allergies more than a year ago during an allergy episode in changing seasons.
Also want to mention Larissa as I started seeing her in Marina’s beautiful office and she’s also contributed to my wellness journey. Acupuncture is my favorite wellness practice, I see them regularly and have never felt better. I sometimes just tell them whatever I’m thinking/feeling knowing they will stick some needles in different places of my body and I come out floating and feeling so relaxed.
Acupuncture has truly changed my life and has helped me in ways I didn’t even know were possible.
I started doing acupuncture to balance my hormones after 2 years of unsuccessful fertility treatments. When I started seeing Marina, my periods were starting to be regular and I was dealing with a few different symptoms which we started treating right away (constipation, random headaches, body aches)… in the last 3 years I have not been sick (no flu, have never tested positive for COVID) - Marina even treated me for allergies more than a year ago during an allergy episode in changing seasons.
Also want to mention Larissa as I started seeing her in Marina’s beautiful office and she’s also contributed to my wellness journey. Acupuncture is my favorite wellness practice, I see them regularly and have never felt better. I sometimes just tell them whatever I’m thinking/feeling knowing they will stick some needles in different places of my body and I come out floating and feeling so relaxed.
Marina is the most qualified acupuncture specialist I've ever worked with. I recommend her highly.
My symptoms have improved dramatically after just 3 sessions! She’s talented and kind, and uses various techniques that really make me feel like she’s taking a holistic approach to my health and emotional wellbeing. Cannot recommend her enough!
Jaesung Kim- a welcome addition to the team- simply incredible !
Excellent service- great results- highly recommended ~!
Excellent service- great results- highly recommended ~!
I've had several sessions with Marina and have had a great experience. I feel relaxed every time a session is over. I recommend trying Pulse out!
I visited Marina for back pain and digestive issues. My whole experience was positive. She is patient, empathetic, and very talented and knowledgeable. She used multiple modalities on my body (front and back) to address my concerns and treat the whole body rather than one part. I have been returning each week and I feel so good after.
Dr Marina is very best to find cure for your aches and pains. She tailors treatment with modalities that fit individual's ailments. You will get relief.
My partner and I have been seeing Marina for the past year now, and it's been a game changer for my health (anything from back pain to allergies). Since starting treatment all these conditions have become so much more manageable.
Marina is not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also very calming and has great bedside manners. If you're looking for a fantastic acupuncturist I can't recommend her enough!!
Marina is not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also very calming and has great bedside manners. If you're looking for a fantastic acupuncturist I can't recommend her enough!!
Marina is so thoughtful and attentive. I have been seeing her regularly for months now and my quality of life is so much better. She’ll listen to what you’re struggling with and give you a really customized session where you walk out the door feeling amazing. Don’t be scared of the needles, it doesn’t hurt!
Highly professional and knowledgeable technician who explains as she goes so there are no surprises. Knows a variety of techniques to provide some of the best care possible. Highly recommended.
Best place to be in new Jersey hands down and yes to recovery. State of the art equipment, advanced training staff awarding with convenient scheduling.
Marina and Pulse Acupuncture have given me outstanding wellness care-helping me through pain issues in my left arm and back- giving me relief before and after my knee replacement surgery - Outstanding care and deeply personal individual attraction
Highly recommend Pulse for acupuncture. Very peaceful atmosphere and effective treatment. I am new to treatment and left my sessions incredibly relaxed and recharged. I felt significant relief in the area I was experiencing dull, recurring pain. Will be going regularly now!
Dr. Marina Doktorman is sweet and amazing at what she does. I feel very comfortable with her and her practice is very clean and spa-like. I’ve been coming weekly for a month and noticed changes in my wellbeing. Using acupuncture she’s able to regulate my hormones, unblock my chakras, and overall improve my wellbeing. I love it and will continue weekly or biweekly treatments as long as my insurance is covered. I highly recommend her to anyone who is new to it or interested in acupuncture treatment. It’s very calming and relaxing!
Marina is the best acupuncturist I’ve been to. Expect a full service experience that changes with your needs whether you express them or aren’t sure what you need that day. (Marina is super intuitive and adjusts treatment accordingly!) Highly recommend going here, you’ll feel better mentally and physically as soon as you’re walking out!
Highly recommend! I have been to quite a few acupuncturists over the years and Pulse is by far my favorite and the most attentive. It is a full service of treating my back, front body and cupping (it does not feel rushed). I suffer from chronic neck pain from an old injury and go for postpartum symptoms relief. I always feel better after leaving. The office is beautiful and calming as well.
Marina relieved my back pain after just a couple of visits. I had been suffering for months and her method of treatments proved to be successful. As a doctor myself I can say that she has great bedside manner as well.
Marina is a great acupuncturist. She is very gentle, professional and caring. I’ve been seeing her on a weekly basis for over a month now to deal with severe fatigue and stress, and in no time the sessions have taken effect. I feel more centered, calm and filled of positive energy. I no longer suffer from insomnia, dizziness or intense anxiety. The practice where she receive appointments in Williamsburg is very nice, clean and comfortable that makes sessions very pleasant and relaxing. I’m very grateful to Marina for her care. Finally, she is very flexible for appointments and can even see a patient in the evening which is very convenient. I highly recommend her.
To understand what I'm talking about, you have to try it for yourself.
After 10 minutes of the procedure, you get into a different reality. Marina is knowledgeable, answers all the questions. After the procedure, the skin of the face glows, the body becomes lighter by a couple of pounds. I've been looking for such a procedure and state of mind for a long time.
After 10 minutes of the procedure, you get into a different reality. Marina is knowledgeable, answers all the questions. After the procedure, the skin of the face glows, the body becomes lighter by a couple of pounds. I've been looking for such a procedure and state of mind for a long time.
Pulse Acupuncture is exactly what I’ve been looking for to treat my migraines! Marina is knowledgeable, professional, asks probing questions and does fire cupping! She also has a very serene and clean office that makes me feel so relaxed and I never feel rushed during my sessions. Marina is truly incredible - her treatments help me mitigate migraines and I highly recommend her for any acupuncture/holistic health needs!! (I’ve tried other practitioners in the area and none have compared to Marina’s experience and professionalism.)
I used acupuncture for low back and SI joint pain. I have a chronic condition. After the 1st treatment pain reduced by 75%. I am very happy with the results. I'm coming back. Thank you!
I found Marina while I was experiencing horrible lower back pain and her treatments got me back to my normal self quickly. Her office is beautiful, clean and welcoming. I will be going back regularly for routine maintenance and stress relief.
Very happy that my friend recommended Pulse Acupuncture Williamsburg Brooklyn to me! Marina Doktorman is such a professional acupuncturist! It was my first time trying acupuncture and I fell in love with it, I felt younger and lighter after my acupuncture session! I recommend to everyone!!!
Marina healed me with the best acupuncture in Williamsburg. My shoulders and traps was intensely in pain to the point it gave me a headache but Pulse Acupuncture relieved my pain. Marina's technique is so effective and relaxing. The space is also beautiful and luxurious and you can also get a massage with Maria who's also AMAZING. I highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture in Williamsburg 🙂
Marina Doktorman is very knowledgeable, skilled, and caring, with many years of experience. Excellent location. Beautiful brand new office.
Super pleased with my first appointment. Marina is very kind, knowledgeable and professional. Highly recommend.
When I first came to Marina, I felt constant pressure in my lower back, tension in my upper back and lack of energy. During the first session I could literally feel something shifting inside in those areas she was working on. Her touch was so gentle that I didn’t even feel the needles go in. The time stopped, I was relaxed, calm and peaceful. Besides acupuncture I had some cupping done as well. The cups relieved a great deal of pressure from my upper and lower back. After the session I immediately felt the effect. Have my next session scheduled for next week. I would definitely recommend Marina to those seeking holistic ways to deal with muscle, spine, and pain issues. She is a miracle worker!
I felt relief after the first session with Marina Doktorman. Marina is a caring practitioner that establishes a connection with her clients and always ensures a comfortable environment. After doing acupuncture, heat therapy, and cupping with her, I felt instant relief and relaxation. In addition, Marina’s treatment helped me feel relief from neck and back pain, as well as to feel grounded and connected to my body. I would highly recommend Marina to anyone.
Excellent service, very knowledgeable and professional. They helped me a lot. Strongly recommend. Went to other offices, but this one is truly the best!
I’m getting acupuncture for allergies and impressed by the results! I’m no longer congested, no teary eyes. It’s just incredible! Im used to getting allergy shots before. No more. It’s unbelievable! The treatment is relaxing and very effective! My headaches are gone too! I really recommend Marina Doktorman at Pulse Acupuncture!
I was treated by Marina at Williamsburg location. After I sprained my ankle I decided to try acupuncture to help with bruising, swelling, and pain. The results were fascinating! The bruising and swelling almost went away!!! I am very very satisfied with the treatment! Marina is very knowledgeable, experienced and has an amazing energy! Will definitely be back!!
I’ve had great acupuncture experience at Pulse Acupuncture. Marina was able to fix my neck strain in just one treatment. It was not painful and actually very relaxing. Cupping and massage followed after acupuncture session. This was the most relief I’ve had in a long time. Loved the healing vibe of this beautiful studio.
I recently visited Pulse Acupuncture to seek relief for my lower back pain, and I am thrilled with the results I achieved through Marina's skillful treatment. After just a few sessions, I noticed a significant improvement in my pain levels and overall mobility.
I am beyond grateful to Marina, because after trying so many things, I almost lost hope. highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture and Marina for anyone seeking relief from pain or other health concerns.
I am beyond grateful to Marina, because after trying so many things, I almost lost hope. highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture and Marina for anyone seeking relief from pain or other health concerns.
I have been visiting Pulse Acupuncture for several months now, and I have consistently received excellent service from Marina. Her expertise in acupuncture and holistic healing is unmatched, and she always takes the time to listen to my concerns and provide personalized recommendations.
The acupuncture sessions themselves are incredibly relaxing and therapeutic. Marina's gentle touch and precise needle placement always leave me feeling calm and rejuvenated. She also incorporates other techniques, such as cupping, which have been very beneficial for my overall health and wellbeing.
In addition to her skill as an acupuncturist, Marina is also a wonderful person to work with. She is warm, friendly, and genuinely cares about her clients' wellbeing. I always leave our sessions feeling refreshed and uplifted, both physically and mentally.
Overall, I highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture and Marina for anyone looking for high-quality acupuncture and personalized care. Thank you, Marina, for your exceptional service and dedication to helping others achieve optimal health!
The acupuncture sessions themselves are incredibly relaxing and therapeutic. Marina's gentle touch and precise needle placement always leave me feeling calm and rejuvenated. She also incorporates other techniques, such as cupping, which have been very beneficial for my overall health and wellbeing.
In addition to her skill as an acupuncturist, Marina is also a wonderful person to work with. She is warm, friendly, and genuinely cares about her clients' wellbeing. I always leave our sessions feeling refreshed and uplifted, both physically and mentally.
Overall, I highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture and Marina for anyone looking for high-quality acupuncture and personalized care. Thank you, Marina, for your exceptional service and dedication to helping others achieve optimal health!
Acupuncture for Piriformis Syndrome - FAQ
How Many Acupuncture Treatments Are Needed for Piriformis Syndrome?
Most people need 6–10 sessions to get noticeable, lasting relief, though mild cases may improve sooner and chronic cases can take longer. At Pulse Acupuncture, a common plan is 1–2 visits per week for the first 2–3 weeks, then tapering as pain decreases, mobility improves, and sciatic irritation calms down.
Is Acupuncture Good for Piriformis Syndrome?
Yes—acupuncture can be helpful for piriformis syndrome by relaxing the tight piriformis muscle, reducing trigger points, and easing irritation around the sciatic nerve. At Pulse Acupuncture, treatment is typically focused on releasing deep glute tension, improving circulation, and supporting better movement with less pain.
Can Acupuncture Help Piriformis Syndrome Sciatica?
Yes—acupuncture may help piriformis-related sciatica by releasing tight glute muscles, reducing trigger points, and calming sciatic nerve irritation. At Pulse Acupuncture, sessions often focus on the piriformis/hip rotators and related low-back and leg pathways to reduce radiating pain and improve mobility.
How Effective Is Acupuncture for Piriformis Syndrome?
Acupuncture can be quite effective for reducing pain and improving mobility when piriformis syndrome is driven by muscle tightness and trigger points. At Pulse Acupuncture, results often improve fastest when treatment is paired with simple stretching, glute/hip strengthening, and reducing long sitting that keeps the piriformis irritated.
Contact us
Acupuncture therapy at Pulse Acupuncture Practice, at Clifton, NJ and Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NYC offers unique combination of various cupuncture types for healing on all levels: emotional, spiritual and physical by integrating ancient wisdom of energy healing with modern acupuncture techniques.