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Best Shoes for Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis syndrome is a common cause of sciatica, pain in the buttock and leg, and numbness or tingling in the back of the thigh. It often develops after sitting for long periods or repetitive movements that put pressure on your piriformis muscle.

The good news is that it’s relatively easy to help prevent this condition by wearing shoes with a wide toe box and heels with arch support. Here are some great options for the best shoes for piriformis syndrome if you have this kind of issue!

Best Shoes for Piriformis Syndrome

Top 5 Best Shoes for Piriformis Syndrome Review:

New Balance Women’s FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker

New Balance Women's FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker, Black/Magnet, 8

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of April 9, 2024 3:30 am

Features

  • These shoes have a performance fit. We recommend ordering a 1/2 size bigger than your typical NB size.
  • Midsole Cushioning: These New Balance sneakers feature a REVlite midsole that delivers incredibly lightweight cushioning and provides a responsive ride for comfortable all-day wear
  • Underfoot Comfort: With an NB Memory Sole Comfort Insert that offers a plush feel with every step, this everyday shoe for women was made for wearing anywhere and everywhere
  • Sleek Design and Supportive Fit: Stay comfortable and stylish as you go about your day with the contemporary bootie design. The bootie upper construction hugs your foot for a snug, supportive fit
  • Lightweight Feel: The modern, eye-catching upper on these cross-trainers uses mesh and synthetic materials for a super lightweight feel that helps keep you light on your feet

Built to keep you energized all day long, these New Balance sneakers feature the REVlite midsole, delivering incredibly lightweight cushioning and providing a responsive ride for comfortable all-day wear.

In addition, these shoes are perfect for people with Piriformis syndrome, who need double the support in that area.

Let Nergize V1 deliver time after time with cushioned protection to the foot’s pressure points that’ll have you feeling breezy and light! The soft foam takes care of your foot as you take care of day-to-day tasks, whether that includes work or play.

With a plush, cushiony feel and plenty of ventilation, the woman who wears these sneakers everywhere will always be satisfied!

This New Balance FuelCore is a lightweight shoe that hugs the foot to hold it in place even as you go about your day. With stitching on the upper for flexibility, they will never let you down. And if you’re dealing with Piriformis Syndrome, these modern shoes are suitable for those long days on either side of the desk.

FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker combines an eye-catching upper with a lightweight feel for the ultimate all-day comfort. These cross trainers are designed to accommodate your Piriformis Syndrome needs, while their 6mm drop provides you with the boost you need to keep running.

In addition, the mesh upper lets your feet breathe without compromising breathability or durability with included features like antimicrobial leather lining and a flex grooved rubber outsole for improved flexibility and grip.

Pros

  • Provides a responsive ride for comfortable all-day wear
  • Delivers incredibly lightweight cushioning  
  • Cushioning to pressure points of the foot  
  • NB Memory Sole Comfort Insert offers a plush feel cushioning
  • Features a flex grooved rubber outsole for improved flexibility and grip

Cons

New Balance Women's FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker, Black/Magnet, 8

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of April 9, 2024 3:30 am

Features

  • These shoes have a performance fit. We recommend ordering a 1/2 size bigger than your typical NB size.
  • Midsole Cushioning: These New Balance sneakers feature a REVlite midsole that delivers incredibly lightweight cushioning and provides a responsive ride for comfortable all-day wear
  • Underfoot Comfort: With an NB Memory Sole Comfort Insert that offers a plush feel with every step, this everyday shoe for women was made for wearing anywhere and everywhere
  • Sleek Design and Supportive Fit: Stay comfortable and stylish as you go about your day with the contemporary bootie design. The bootie upper construction hugs your foot for a snug, supportive fit
  • Lightweight Feel: The modern, eye-catching upper on these cross-trainers uses mesh and synthetic materials for a super lightweight feel that helps keep you light on your feet

Reebok Women’s HIIT Training Shoe Cross Trainer

Reebok Women's HIIT TR 2.0 Cross Trainer, Blue Slate/Gable Grey/White, 7.5

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of April 9, 2024 3:30 am

Features

  • Unleash the Athlete Within: Workout the way you want - these versatile women's athletic sneakers enable you to jump, climb, and workout with complete confidence
  • Superior Comfort & Support: Designed to help you optimize your workouts, these comfortable gym shoes for women provide the lightweight, responsive cushioning of running shoes, while maintaining the performance and stability of training shoes
  • Signature Style: With the sleek shape and ultra-stylish design of these workout shoes for women, you'll crush your workout goals and look good doing it
  • Next-Level Performance: Our women's athletic shoes are designed to help you conquer your fitness goals; Slip on a pair of our training sneakers for women and enjoy enhanced agility, speed, and endurance
  • Move with Confidence: The perfect crossfit shoes for women, these training shoes are designed to handle cross-training sessions and intense workouts, from cardio and lifting to climbing and running

Train Harder in this HIIT trainer by Reebok Cross Trainer Women’s Shoe. It features a mesh upper to let the airflow in so you stay cool during high-intensity workouts. This can be helpful when working out hard or just warming up before doing additional activities such as yoga or biking.

There are many muscles that Piriformis Syndrome affects, including your glutes, hamstrings, and hips. In addition, this shoe has a 3-piece stability system, which cushions your entire foot for even more comfort throughout your day.

The shoe that’s dominating the workout space because it’s designed with a mesh upper to keep your feet at their absolute best and a rubber outsole for natural, real movements plus, it boosts performance, lowers the impact on joints and tissues, has active cooling technology for muscle recovery, is perfect for Piriformis Syndrome and more!

These shoes are designed for your fast-paced, serious workouts but also offer you a good time! With two sets of laces and an arch stabilizer, Reebok’s Women’s Cross Trainer will keep you safe so you can go hard on your workout.

Don’t worry about pesky Piriformis Syndrome slowing down your progress either, and this shoe has got you flexibly covered, so you can go ahead and kill it in class today. 

Reebok’s Women’s HIIT Training Shoe cross trainer will keep you comfortable and supported all day. With EVA foam cushioning that gives just the right amount of impact absorption without too much bulk, this shoe will take your performance to tempt fate.

These shoes are comfortable, supportive sleek sneakers with lightweight EVA foam cushioning. With a tongue pull for easy pull-on and perfect for those who suffer from Piriformis Syndrome, this line of shoes will get you toned in no time!

Pros

  • Cushioning to pressure points of the foot  
  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • With a tongue pull for easy pull-on
  • Ventilation throughout the shoe
  • Perfect for those who suffer from Piriformis Syndrome  

Cons

  • Not perfect for narrow feet

Reebok Women's HIIT TR 2.0 Cross Trainer, Blue Slate/Gable Grey/White, 7.5

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of April 9, 2024 3:30 am

Features

  • Unleash the Athlete Within: Workout the way you want - these versatile women's athletic sneakers enable you to jump, climb, and workout with complete confidence
  • Superior Comfort & Support: Designed to help you optimize your workouts, these comfortable gym shoes for women provide the lightweight, responsive cushioning of running shoes, while maintaining the performance and stability of training shoes
  • Signature Style: With the sleek shape and ultra-stylish design of these workout shoes for women, you'll crush your workout goals and look good doing it
  • Next-Level Performance: Our women's athletic shoes are designed to help you conquer your fitness goals; Slip on a pair of our training sneakers for women and enjoy enhanced agility, speed, and endurance
  • Move with Confidence: The perfect crossfit shoes for women, these training shoes are designed to handle cross-training sessions and intense workouts, from cardio and lifting to climbing and running

Ryka Women’s Influence Cross Trainer

Ryka Women's Influence Cross Trainer, Black/Atomic Pink/Royal Blue/Forge Grey, 8.5 M US

$89.99
$54.14
 in stock
4 new from $54.09
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of April 9, 2024 3:30 am

Features

  • BEST FOR: Dance fitness + Low-impact workouts
  • PERFORMANCE TECH: N-Gage energy return foam for shape retention + cushioning on impact
  • MADE FOR WOMEN FIT: Designed for a woman’s unique foot shape with a narrower heel, roomier toe, and softer foot cushioning
  • MATERIALS: Breathable mesh with faux leather overlays for extra durability + Padded heel for extra cushioning
  • OUTSOLE: Ergonomically-shaped rubber sole for extra durability where you need it most + Pivot Point for smooth and easy turns

The Ryka Women’s Influence Cross Trainer is just what you need. With a rubber sole and traction outsole with pivot points for ease of movement suitable for Piriformis Syndrome sufferers, the Ryka cross trainer elevates your exercise game!

Let this sporty model help take off some of the pressure from your joints while not skimping on style.

Power through your workout with this chic cross-trainer. The Ryka Influence has a supportive upper, padding in the heel for all-day comfort, and a flexible TPR outsole that allows you to move freely without having to worry about slipping. And the design is actually built on an impossibly thin sole, so it stays snug around your foot while still being ultra-lightweight.

This Ryka footwear features a rubber sole with heel cushioning to make it an enjoyable fit. With dynamic pivot points and footbars for the pivoting amplitude to one side, this provides plenty of flexibility in all directions.

If you’re suffering from Piriformis Syndrome (sciatica), these shoes will relieve pressure and improve your endurance and knees as well as other mobility problems!

Ryka’s Influence Cross Trainer will keep you connected to the ground even as you take on new challenges at work or on the track. Featuring a Flex-Foil, Direct Fuse Layers, and Dual-Density foam midsole, your feet will be supported for both standing and walking hours without any aches or pain.

And thanks to Ryka’s N-Gage providing high impact energy return, this shoe is perfect for those who suffer from Piriformis Syndrome or Runner’s Knee.

Pros

  • Rubber sole with heel cushioning
  • Dynamic pivot points and footbars for the pivoting amplitude
  • With seamless upper design for total comfort
  • Features Flex-foil and Direct Fuse layers to provide support
  • Comes with dual-density foam midsole with high impact N-Gage EVA energy return

Cons

  • Not true to sizing

Ryka Women's Influence Cross Trainer, Black/Atomic Pink/Royal Blue/Forge Grey, 8.5 M US

$89.99
$54.14
 in stock
4 new from $54.09
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of April 9, 2024 3:30 am

Features

  • BEST FOR: Dance fitness + Low-impact workouts
  • PERFORMANCE TECH: N-Gage energy return foam for shape retention + cushioning on impact
  • MADE FOR WOMEN FIT: Designed for a woman’s unique foot shape with a narrower heel, roomier toe, and softer foot cushioning
  • MATERIALS: Breathable mesh with faux leather overlays for extra durability + Padded heel for extra cushioning
  • OUTSOLE: Ergonomically-shaped rubber sole for extra durability where you need it most + Pivot Point for smooth and easy turns

Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoe

Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 8 , Black (006)/Vapor Green , 10

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of April 9, 2024 3:30 am

Features

  • NEUTRAL: For runners who need a balance of flexibility & cushioning
  • Lightweight mesh upper with 3-color digital print delivers complete breathability
  • Durable leather overlays for stability & that locks in your midfoot
  • EVA sockliner provides soft, step-in comfort
  • Charged Cushioning midsole uses compression molded foam for even greater responsiveness & durability, providing optimal cushioning & energy return

The Charged Assert 8 running shoe from Under Armour is made with their signature antimicrobial technology, so your feet will feel amazing all the time. It’s also comfortable and lightweight for a perfect workout experience!

The Charging Strike quickly absorbs impact to provide more performance than ever before, and we haven’t even gotten to how great it looks yet!

With reflective accents, these shoes are sure to get noticed when you’re out on your run in the early morning or late evening hours.

The dual-compound Charged foam provides plush cushioning without bulkiness or sore spots. The Charged RUSH ball pattern disperses impact with every step for more energy and durability. Keep running until you receive these shoes!

This shoe’s rubber outsole offers runners a slim, lightweight feel and flexible terrain adaptability. This Charged Assert 8 running shoe has underfoot cushioning to gently protect your feet while you’re on the go, and it also has ergonomic arch support to make sure that you get both comfort and stability in each step.

Choose this Under Armour men’s running shoe with a breathable mesh upper for an unbeatable combination of flexibility, durability, and good looks!

Great for people with back pain, the underside of this durable shoe has a rubberized sole to keep you stable and comfortable whilst on your feet all day.

Complete with breathable uppers and a molded bumper for extra protection from over-pronation or plantar fasciitis, these shoes are ideal for someone who wants something just perfect! Designed to be lightweight and flexible, this shoe will keep you feeling charged in any workout.

Pros

  • Durable shoe has a rubberized sole to keep feet stable and comfortable
  • Rubber sole with breathable uppers and molded bumper protection
  • Ultra-lightweight design
  • Molded midsole with charged cushioning
  • Charged Cushioning midsole uses compression molded foam

Cons

  • Cushion offers no added support

Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 8 , Black (006)/Vapor Green , 10

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of April 9, 2024 3:30 am

Features

  • NEUTRAL: For runners who need a balance of flexibility & cushioning
  • Lightweight mesh upper with 3-color digital print delivers complete breathability
  • Durable leather overlays for stability & that locks in your midfoot
  • EVA sockliner provides soft, step-in comfort
  • Charged Cushioning midsole uses compression molded foam for even greater responsiveness & durability, providing optimal cushioning & energy return

ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 27 Running Shoes

ASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 27 Running Shoes, 11, Sheet Rock/Magnetic Blue

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of April 9, 2024 3:30 am

Features

  • Engineered mesh upper:
  • AHAR Outsole: Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional durability.
  • Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System: Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
  • EVA Sockliner: Removable sockliner that provides cushioning performance.
  • Dynamic DuoMax Support System: This evolution of DuoMax system enhances stability and support, with reduced weight and increased platform support.

The ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 27 Running Shoes for men is a horseshoe built to take all the pressure and fully support your feet. With a lightweight PU midsole, it absorbs shock from all directions, while high-quality composite rubber provides grip in all weather conditions. This evolution of the DuoMax system enhances stability and support with reduced weight and increased platform support.

The wider heel stretch bands cradle tight laces to eliminate slipping no matter how much you want to speed up that last mile! If you have Piriformis Syndrome or need extra space at the ball of your foot, this will be a perfect fit! Set for an intense week of running, these ASICS Gel-Kayano Men’s Running Shoes have you covered.

The space trusstic technology can reduce the weight of the sole unit without compromising your stability or structural integrity, so that hard work feels like you’re on cloud nine.

Slip into the shoe and feel refreshed while lowering fatigue with reduced rubbing against sock silk thanks to washable mesh lacing clips, unlike many other shoes made with natural materials that are never quite as clean as new after several washes!

Plus, since these features cater towards those born with piriformis syndrome, these shoes will make running an easy experience.

Put your toughest self forward with these ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 27 Running Shoes. Runners will love their whisper-quiet ride along gentle trails or anything else they please, as this shoe provides substantial rearfoot support without sacrificing forefoot flexibility.

With Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology, you’ll enjoy all the plush cushioning that your tender feet need to help them survive (and thrive!) mile after mile. Plus, it’s designed for those who suffer from Piriformis Syndrome! 

Pros

  • Lightweight PU midsole absorbs shock
  • A wider heel stretch band eliminates slipping
  • DuoMax system enhances stability and support
  • Washable mesh lacing clips for sockless running
  • The FlyteFoam Propel Technology provides supreme bounce 

Cons

  • Narrow toe box

ASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 27 Running Shoes, 11, Sheet Rock/Magnetic Blue

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of April 9, 2024 3:30 am

Features

  • Engineered mesh upper:
  • AHAR Outsole: Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional durability.
  • Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System: Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
  • EVA Sockliner: Removable sockliner that provides cushioning performance.
  • Dynamic DuoMax Support System: This evolution of DuoMax system enhances stability and support, with reduced weight and increased platform support.

What Is the Best Treatment for Piriformis Syndrome?

Piriformis syndrome is the most common cause of sciatica-like pain that radiates into the buttocks and is often accompanied by tingling or numbness in the affected leg. The piriformis muscle, located deep within your buttocks, can spasm due to injury, overuse, pregnancy, or other factors. Compression of the sciatic nerve within the piriformis muscle can cause pain, tingling, or numbness in your buttocks, thighs, and legs.

Although piriformis syndrome generally resolves on its own with time, physical therapy exercises to stretch the muscle are often recommended by doctors to speed up recovery. Applying cold packs may also help reduce inflammation of the nerve.

Physical Therapy Exercises for Piriformis Syndrome

Stretching exercises are the primary treatment for piriformis syndrome. To stretch the piriformis muscle, start lying on your back with your legs flat on the floor or a bed. Pull one knee to your chest while keeping the other foot flat on the floor.

Stretching Exercises Are the Primary Treatment for Piriformis Syndrome

Hold this position for five seconds, then slowly lower the raised leg to the floor or bed. Wait 30 seconds before switching legs. You should feel a stretch in your buttocks and down your leg on the affected side. Repeat 10 times three to four times per day.

You may also want to ask your doctor about ultrasound therapy treatments, which can deliver therapeutic heat and may help reduce pain and tighten your piriformis muscle. Piriformis syndrome is generally easy to treat, even in the absence of an early diagnosis.

However, chronic or recurring cases may warrant additional treatment measures. You might need injections of anesthetic, corticosteroids, or botulinum toxin type A (Botox) into the muscle to reduce muscle spasms and pain.

How to Choose the Best Shoes for Piriformis Syndrome

The best shoes for piriformis syndrome contain plenty of room within their toe boxes and allow ample space at the heels. Shoes should be flexible enough that you can easily wiggle your toes and bend your ankles, but not so flimsy that your feet can slide around inside. Here we have listed some factors that you should look for when buying the best shoes for piriformis syndrome:

1. Support:

Look for shoes with better side and back support than front support.

2. Material:

Made of soft leather or heavy-duty canvas instead of stiff leather, these materials will provide plenty of room to avoid rubbing against the piriformis muscle while also maintaining their shape over time.

3. Sole:

Solid soles reduce the chances of slipping and allow your feet to move easily. Avoid shoes with thick, spongy soles that may add unnecessary cushioning, which constricts movement. In addition, treaded soles provide better grip.

4. Lacing System:

Opt for shoes with lacing systems that tie at the top of your ankles instead of those that lace all the way up. This will remove pressure from the common piriformis trigger points where they attach to the pelvis and prevent constriction on your sciatic nerve.

5. Toe Box:

Look for a roomy toe box that leaves plenty of space to wiggle your toes and bend your ankles. Avoid shoes with pointed or narrow toe boxes, as these will place pressure on the front of your foot, which could aggravate your piriformis syndrome.

6. Shape:

Opt for a shoe shape that is asymmetrical rather than symmetrical. Asymmetrical shoes are less likely to cause irritation, as the different shapes of your feet will be accommodated.

7. Heel:

Look for thicker heels that offer plenty of cushioning around the back and sides to ensure heel comfort. Avoid shoes with very low or flat heels as these could place strain on your piriformis syndrome.

8. Back Counter:

Look for shoes with a back counter that wraps high around your heel to help support the natural inward curve of your feet. Avoid shoes without back counters as these leave you unprotected against over-pronation and increase the chances of developing stress fractures, muscle pain, and plantar fasciitis.

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How Do You Stop Piriformis Pain?

Piriformis syndrome is a condition in which the piriformis muscle spasms and puts pressure on the sciatic nerve. If you have had symptoms of piriformis syndrome, you may be looking for relief from the pain.

You can get that relief by taking care of your body through stretching, exercise, and healthy lifestyle choices. Exercises such as squats and bridges will strengthen the muscles of your hips and back, so they can provide support to your joints.

Being overweight or obese is not good for anyone because it puts excess pressure on the joints and the lower back. It also makes it more likely that you will develop arthritis in your knees and other areas of your body. If you are overweight, losing some weight can make a big difference. You may need to wear orthopedic shoes for sciatica if the Piriformis muscle is extremely tight and causing severe pain.

Conclusion

If you suffer from piriformis syndrome, the best shoes for your condition may be a cross-trainer. Cross trainers offer more support and stability than other types of running shoes because they have better arch support.

You can also find some specially designed inserts or orthotics to help relieve pain in the lower back, an important consideration if you’re suffering from this debilitating condition.

In addition to providing relief, these inserts can improve foot function by balancing out muscle imbalances that contribute to low-back dysfunction. For those who want a higher level of comfort without sacrificing performance, we recommend Ryka’s Women’s Influence Cross Trainer as our top pick for people living with piriformis syndrome.

We hope this blog post has helped you choose the best shoes for piriformis syndrome. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.

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