How do you perform a Piriformis Stretch Test?

How do you perform a Piriformis Stretch Test?

• A. Patient seated with leg crossed over opposite knee
• B. Patient prone, flex knee to 90 and stabilize the opposite iliac crest
• C. Patient supine with legs straight
• D. Patient standing with feet apart

Answer: (B)

The Piriformis Stretch Test is performed by positioning the patient prone, flexing the knee to 90 degrees, and stabilizing the opposite iliac crest. This position allows for targeted assessment of the piriformis muscle, which is located deep in the gluteal region. By flexing the knee, you create a mechanical advantage that allows you to isolate the stretch applied to the piriformis muscle, while stabilization prevents compensatory movement from the pelvis. In this position, if there is tightness or spasm in the piriformis muscle, the patient may experience pain that could radiate along the pathway of the sciatic nerve, providing valuable diagnostic information. Thus, the combination of knee flexion and pelvic stabilization is key to effectively evaluating the function and condition of the piriformis muscle.

The Piriformis Stretch Test is performed by positioning the patient prone, flexing the knee to 90 degrees, and stabilizing the opposite iliac crest. This position allows for targeted assessment of the piriformis muscle, which is located deep in the gluteal region. By flexing the knee, you create a mechanical advantage that allows you to isolate the stretch applied to the piriformis muscle, while stabilization prevents compensatory movement from the pelvis.

In this position, if there is tightness or spasm in the piriformis muscle, the patient may experience pain that could radiate along the pathway of the sciatic nerve, providing valuable diagnostic information. Thus, the combination of knee flexion and pelvic stabilization is key to effectively evaluating the function and condition of the piriformis muscle.