Piriformis Test for Piriformis Tightness

Piriformis Syndrome

• Occurs in about 15% of the population
• The sciatic nerve runs through the piriformis muscle instead of underneath it in these individuals
• Leads to a condition known as piriformis syndrome

Performing the Piriformis Test

1. Positioning
   • Patient should be in a sideline position at the edge of the table
2. Leg Position
   • Upper leg: 60 degrees of hip flexion, knee flexed
   • Lower leg: completely extended
3. Stabilizing and Applying Pressure
   • Fixate the pelvis with one hand
   • Apply downward pressure at the knee with the other hand
4. Results
   • Test is positive if the patient complains of pain in the buttock area
   • Radiating pain down the back side of the leg also indicates a positive test

Additional Resources

• Consider watching videos on:
  • Straight Leg Raise Test
  • Slump Test

Conclusion

• Thank viewers and encourage them to like, subscribe, and check out other videos for assessing radiating leg pain