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Piriformis

Region

Origin & Insertion

['Origin: Anterior sacrum', 'Insertion: Greater trochanter of femur']

Synergistic Muscles

['Gemelli', 'Obturators']

Joints

['Hip']

Primary Actions

['Hip external rotation', 'Abduction (hip flexed)']

Nerve & Spinal Segment

Nerve to piriformis

Sacral plexus; S1–S2

Interesting

Sciatic nerve may pass through it. [Moore’s]

Reversal of Action

Rotate pelvis over femur

Common Dysfunctions

Piriformis syndrome, sciatic nerve irritation

How to Stretch

Figure 4 stretch or supine twist.

Trigger Points

How to Strengthen

Isolated hip ER.

Concentric Action

External rotation of hip (ER)

Applications:

Overactive in hip instability; related to sciatic compression

Eccentric Action

Control inward rotation

Isotonic Action

Clamshells, standing hip ER

Related Conditions

['Piriformis syndrome', 'Sciatica']

Isometric Action

Hold ER position in seated rotation

Exercise Ideas

['Clamshells', 'Bridge with ER', 'Fire hydrants']

Related Blogs

Images

Videos

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