PIRIFORMIS SYNDROME: The piriformis muscle is a small muscle located deep in the glutes (buttocks), behind the gluteus maximus. It connects the spine to the top of the femur and allows incredible flexibility in the hip region (it’s the main muscle that allows for outward movement of the hip, upper leg and foot from the body). Functions of the piriformis muscle:
• The piriformis restrains rapid internal rotation of hip (occurs when running)
• Externally rotates the femur when the hip is neutral or extended
• Horizontally abducts the thigh when the hip is flexed to 90 drifters
This syndrome is uncommon cause of pain and other symptoms in the buttocks and/or lower back that can radiate down the leg to the foot.
The causes for piriformis syndrome are related to the location of the sciatic nerve in relation to the piriformis muscle; the sciatic nerve passes out of the pelvis by four routes. Spasm or swelling of the piriformis muscle can cause signs and symptoms due to pressure placed on the various areas of the sciatic nerve that are adjacent to the muscle. Some causes are over use, prolonged compression, trigger points in piriformis, postural concerns and more.
I have had many clients with sciatic nerve pain, glutes are a primary focus when working with low back, hip and glute pain.
Here are some secrets about the piriformis muscle from Megan over @megan.kineticadvantage 1) it’s a generalized turn of phrase just like “lower back pain”. Can be from several things 2)When the glutes aren’t being engaged properly, it’ll be overused to externally rotate the thigh = a muscle used a lot is a tight one (lots of tension in it) 3) if SI joint is messed up, it pulls on the piriformis = chronically stretch and irritated. Very different from cause of tension of #2
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