Piriformis Stretches to Relieve Piriformis Syndrome

Helpful Piriformis Stretches and Exercises

1. Foam Roll Piriformis (Self-Myofascial Release)

  • Sit on a foam roller placed under one hip
  • Cross one ankle over the opposite knee
  • Slowly roll over the back of the hip
  • Pause on tender spots for about 30 seconds

This helps release tight tissue in the piriformis area.


2. Foam Roll Quadriceps

  • Lie face down with a foam roller under the thighs
  • Support your body with your forearms
  • Slowly roll the front of the thighs
  • Pause on tight spots for 30 seconds

3. Foam Roll IT Band

  • Lie on your side with the foam roller under the outer thigh
  • Place the top leg in front for support
  • Roll slowly from the hip toward the knee
  • Pause on tender areas for 30 seconds

4. Piriformis Stretch

  • Lie on your back
  • Cross one ankle over the opposite knee
  • Pull the bottom leg toward your chest
  • Gently push the crossed knee outward
  • Hold for 30 seconds

5. Hamstring Stretch (Biceps Femoris)

  • Lie on your back

  • Bend one knee to 90°
  • Extend the leg upward until you feel a stretch in the hamstring
  • Hold for 30 seconds

6. Hip Flexor Stretch

  • Kneel with one knee on the floor
  • Keep the other foot in front at 90°
  • Tighten the glutes and shift the hips forward
  • Raise the arm on the same side as the kneeling leg
  • Hold for 30 seconds

Strengthening Exercises