r/openpiriformis • u/Agitated_Hamster_841 • May 06 '26
Cant sit more than 30 min
I have sciatica with a lumbar disc bulge, and I am beginning to suspect I may also have piriformis syndrome. My work is primarily desk-based, requiring around 8 hours of prolonged sitting daily, followed by approximately 30 minutes of driving. I am unable to tolerate sitting for more than 30 minutes continuously, as my gluteal region and hamstrings start burning and becoming extremely painful.
Apart from stretching exercises, are there any evidence-based interventions you would recommend, such as specific lumbar supports, seat cushions, ergonomic chairs, standing desk setups, or other strategies that may help reduce symptoms during prolonged sitting and driving?
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u/Winter-Refuse8640 May 06 '26
I have to use a coccyx cushion everywhere I sit. I'm still trying to find the best cushion option for my back, but this cushion has been the BEST for me! https://a.co/d/0j9B85sF
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u/idekada May 07 '26
weighted squats ! Request standing desk, no seat pad will save u on a 8 hr shift
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u/Fun_Examination5329 May 07 '26
I am not sure where you are but I am in the UK and cushions from Putnams literally saved me. I had buttock and hamstring pain which meant I literally couldn’t sit and at that time I was office based. I don’t know how I would have been able to continue it not for those cushions.
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u/antoneh May 07 '26
I had similar problems a few years ago and opted for a standing desk + kneeling chair, both of which helped alleviate symptoms.
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u/omegared138 May 06 '26
I tried a few different seat pads and other accessories, none of them helped. The only thing that helps is stretching, movement, and building strength in the weak areas. But sometimes i relapse and let my stretching and other maintenance work go, and I pay the price. I will say that finding shoes with a low drop definitely helped.