Place your right ankle on top of your left knee and lift your left leg. Hold the position for a few seconds. This stretches the small piriformis muscle, which can become inflamed and push on the sciatic nerve, producing discomfort. Repeat the exercise with the opposite leg. You should feel a slight stretch in the area of your hip/buttock. For acute pain, apply ice packs to the affected area. For long-term relief, see your doctor - there are many treatments available that may help relieve your pain.