Can an MRI diagnose piriformis syndrome?

An MRI cannot definitively diagnose piriformis syndrome, as it primarily serves to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as herniated discs or other structural abnormalities. While an MRI can show the piriformis muscle and its relationship to the sciatic nerve, the diagnosis of piriformis syndrome is typically based on clinical evaluation and symptoms rather than imaging alone. Therefore, a comprehensive assessment by a healthcare professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis.