Written by Dr. Matthias Wiederholz, MD | Last Updated: July 2025
The best muscle relaxer for piriformis syndrome is cyclobenzaprine, often prescribed to ease muscle spasms when physical therapy and NSAIDs aren’t enough, according to leading medical authorities.
Understanding the best muscle relaxer for piriformis syndrome helps patients manage pain, reduce frustration, and regain mobility—supporting day-to-day comfort and independence without unnecessary trial and error or prolonged discomfort.
As a board-certified interventional pain physician, I bring over 20 years of experience helping patients find meaningful relief from debilitating conditions like piriformis syndrome in Houston.
Having served as the first physician in Houston to provide the Discseel® Procedure and one of only three master instructors worldwide, I’ve dedicated my career to advancing minimally invasive spine treatments and solutions that restore mobility and comfort. I was personally trained by Dr. Kevin Pauza, the inventor of Discseel®, giving me unique insight into innovative pain management approaches.
Piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve, leading to pain in the buttocks and legs. Treatment typically begins with conservative measures such as physical therapy, stretching exercises, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If these approaches do not provide sufficient relief, muscle relaxants may be considered to alleviate muscle spasms and discomfort, as detailed in this overview of piriformis syndrome treatments and medications.
If you’re frustrated with ongoing pain, you’re not alone—there are safe, effective therapies and expert support available in Houston to help you reclaim your freedom of movement. You may also find it helpful to review our comprehensive guide to L5-S1 bulging disc for more insight into nerve-related pain and treatment options.
Piriformis syndrome is a condition where the piriformis muscle irritates the sciatic nerve, causing pain in the buttock and leg. In my 20 years of treating spine and nerve pain, I’ve found that the most effective approach is a stepwise progression, starting with conservative care.
First-line treatments always prioritize physical therapy, targeted stretching, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These methods address the root cause—muscle tightness and inflammation—while minimizing medication side effects. Only when these measures fail to provide relief do I consider adding a muscle relaxer for piriformis syndrome, such as cyclobenzaprine or tizanidine. It’s important to note that research shows no single muscle relaxant is proven superior, and each comes with its own side effect profile.
Here’s a concise list of minimally invasive treatments I commonly use in my Houston practice:
What are the main treatments for piriformis syndrome? The main treatments include physical therapy, stretching, NSAIDs, oral muscle relaxants, trigger point injections, and steroid injections. Surgery is rarely needed.
Every patient’s situation is unique. My board certification in Pain Medicine guides me to tailor treatment plans based on individual needs, always emphasizing the importance of consulting a physician before starting any piriformis syndrome medication. For those in Houston, I recommend seeking care from a local specialist for optimal results. If you are interested in understanding nerve symptoms, you can also read our post on understanding S1 nerve distribution, anatomy, symptoms, and treatment.
In my experience, most patients with piriformis syndrome benefit from a combination of self-care and physical rehabilitation. Gentle stretching, activity modification, and targeted exercises are the foundation of recovery. I often refer patients to physical therapy in Houston to ensure proper technique and progression.
When pain persists, I add NSAIDs or acetaminophen to reduce inflammation. If muscle spasms remain severe, a muscle relaxer for piriformis syndrome—such as cyclobenzaprine or tizanidine—may be prescribed for short-term use. These medications can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, or dizziness, so I monitor patients closely.
It’s essential to understand that muscle relaxers are not a cure but a temporary aid. My training in sports medicine helps me balance medication benefits with the risks, always prioritizing function and safety. For more on best practices, refer to our effective treatment options for L5-S1 disc herniation pain, as many principles overlap with piriformis syndrome care.
If you are interested in exploring multimodal approaches, our back pain services page provides a comprehensive overview of available treatments designed for long-term relief.
If you experience any of the following symptoms with piriformis syndrome in Houston, contact a physician immediately:
These signs may indicate a more serious nerve problem. For more details, see this Mayo Clinic guide on emergency symptoms.
For further reading on when to seek help for back or nerve pain, check out our article on emergency symptoms of a herniated disc.
When conservative care isn’t enough, I consider the best muscle relaxer for piriformis syndrome based on each patient’s health and response. Research confirms that cyclobenzaprine and tizanidine are the most frequently prescribed options, but no single medication is proven superior.
Commonly Prescribed Muscle Relaxants for Piriformis Syndrome:
Considerations and Side Effects:
While muscle relaxants can provide relief from muscle spasms, they are generally recommended for short-term use due to potential side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. Prolonged use may lead to tolerance and dependency. Therefore, it is crucial to use these medications under the guidance of a healthcare provider. (acuhump.com)
Alternative Treatments:
In addition to muscle relaxants, other treatments for piriformis syndrome include:
To learn more about how symptoms and causes may overlap with other spinal conditions, you can explore our detailed article on herniated disc symptoms, causes, and treatment.
The choice of muscle relaxant for piriformis syndrome should be individualized, taking into account the patient's specific symptoms, health history, and response to previous treatments. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the most appropriate and safe treatment plan.
For Houston patients, I always recommend discussing medication options with a local muscle relaxer specialist to ensure safe, personalized care. For more on medication choices, see this NCBI clinical review.
Cyclobenzaprine and tizanidine are the best-known muscle relaxers for piriformis syndrome. Cyclobenzaprine is often my first choice for acute muscle spasm, as it’s well-studied and generally effective. Tizanidine is useful for patients who need less sedation or have spasticity.
Baclofen may be considered for severe cases, but it can cause significant drowsiness. Methocarbamol is less sedating but may not be as potent. Carisoprodol and diazepam are rarely used due to dependency risks.
Research shows that no single muscle relaxer is best for everyone; the choice depends on individual health, age, and response to previous medications. In my Houston practice, I always tailor the prescription to the patient’s unique needs. For additional perspective, review Discseel reviews and achieving lasting back pain relief to see how others approach long-term recovery alongside standard medication options.
I recommend considering a muscle relaxer for piriformis syndrome only when:
If you’re in Houston and standard therapies aren’t working, consult a pain specialist to discuss next steps. My experience as a master instructor helps me guide patients through these decisions safely.
For patients who don’t respond to medications or therapy, I offer several minimally invasive treatments in Houston. These options can provide targeted relief without surgery:
Having performed hundreds of these procedures, I’ve seen many patients regain mobility and comfort. Each treatment has its own benefits and risks, so I always discuss options thoroughly.
For more on advanced therapies, see this Healthline overview of piriformis syndrome treatments.
In my Houston clinic, I use advanced pain relief options for piriformis syndrome, including:
Each therapy is chosen based on the patient’s symptoms and response to prior treatments. My training as a master instructor ensures these procedures are performed with the highest safety and precision.
The Discseel® Procedure is a unique, non-surgical treatment I offer in Houston for advanced piriformis syndrome cases. It uses a biologic fibrin sealant to repair damaged spinal discs, promoting natural healing and long-term pain relief. As one of only three master instructors worldwide, I’ve seen firsthand how Discseel® can help patients who haven’t responded to other treatments.
If you’re interested in innovative piriformis syndrome treatment in Houston, see if you are a candidate for the Discseel® procedure.
Patient experiences are at the heart of my practice, especially when it comes to managing complex conditions like piriformis syndrome. After 20 years of helping patients with spine and nerve pain, I know that every individual’s journey to relief is unique.
My approach always begins with a thorough evaluation and a stepwise treatment plan, prioritizing conservative therapies before considering medications or advanced procedures. As someone who trains physicians nationally in minimally invasive spine treatments, I am committed to providing the safest, most effective options available.
I believe in full transparency about the benefits and limitations of each treatment, including muscle relaxers and innovative procedures like Discseel®. This ensures that patients can make informed decisions about their care.
Ultimately, my goal is to restore comfort and mobility while empowering patients to take an active role in their recovery. If you wish to discuss your symptoms and learn which options might be best, contact us for a consultation to speak with our expert care team.
Living in Houston means access to a wide range of advanced pain management options for piriformis syndrome. As the first physician to bring the Discseel® Procedure to Houston, I’ve seen how innovative treatments can make a real difference for local patients.
Houston’s diverse and active population often faces unique challenges with musculoskeletal pain, whether from sports, work, or daily life. Research shows that early intervention and personalized care are key to long-term relief, especially in a city where staying active is important to so many.
My practice is dedicated to offering evidence-based solutions tailored to the needs of Houston residents, from physical therapy referrals to advanced injections and minimally invasive procedures. If you’re struggling with piriformis syndrome, I encourage you to consult a local physician who understands the specific demands of our community.
To see if you are a candidate for the Discseel® Procedure or to explore other pain relief options in Houston, reach out today.
*This content reflects current medical guidelines and Dr. Wiederholz's 20+ years of clinical experience.*
Drawing from my quadruple board certification and two decades of practice, I know that finding the best muscle relaxer for piriformis syndrome requires a careful, individualized approach. Most patients benefit from starting with physical therapy and anti-inflammatories, while medications like cyclobenzaprine or tizanidine may help when muscle spasms persist. For those in Houston, advanced options—including minimally invasive injections and the Discseel® Procedure—are available for complex cases. My specialized expertise ensures that every patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their needs and goals. If you’re ready to explore your options, see if you are a candidate for the Discseel® procedure.
*This article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.*
The most commonly prescribed muscle relaxers for piriformis syndrome are cyclobenzaprine and tizanidine. Research shows no single medication is proven superior; effectiveness depends on your health history and how you respond. Physical therapy and NSAIDs are usually tried first, with muscle relaxers considered for short-term relief if spasms persist.
Houston offers a range of options, from physical therapy and medication to minimally invasive procedures. As a board-certified specialist, I provide both standard and advanced treatments—including the Discseel® Procedure—for patients who need more than conservative care. Consulting a local physician ensures your treatment is tailored to your specific needs.
No, muscle relaxers are not always required. Most patients improve with stretching, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. Muscle relaxers are reserved for cases where muscle spasm is severe and unresponsive to other treatments. For more on evidence-based approaches, see this evidence-based review of piriformis syndrome treatments.
