What is the piriformis muscle?
The piriformis muscle is a small muscle located deep in the rear (behind the gluteus maximus). The piriformis muscle: • Starts at the lower spine and connects to the upper surface of each femur (thighbone). • Functions to assist in rotating the hip. • Runs horizontally, with the sciatic nerve running vertically directly beneath it. While there is some controversy in the medical community, many health professionals believe that an accurate diagnosis and comprehensive management approach are critical to alleviate the sciatica type of pain caused by piriformis syndrome.
