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In this article, I will explain “piriformis muscle” in detail.
The piriformis muscle is a small muscle located in the buttocks of humans, and may also contribute to lower back pain and sciatica. We'll introduce the function of the piriformis muscle, the health issues it can cause, and how to exercise to strengthen the piriformis muscle and keep it flexible. The piriformis muscle is heavily involved in daily activities, and maintaining its health is very important, especially for modern people who sit a lot. By performing proper stretching and strengthening exercises, you can improve the function of this important muscle and reduce the risk of lower back pain and sciatica. Please use this article to deepen your understanding of the body.
Watch a video about piriformis muscle here
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What is piriformis muscle
The piriformis muscle is one of the muscles in our body, and it plays a particularly important role in lower body movements. It is located in the deep part of the buttocks (buttocks) and works to smooth movement from the lower back to the lower legs. Also, since the piriformis muscle passes close to the sciatic nerve, tension in the piriformis muscle may also cause sciatica.
How to read piriformis muscle
Piriformis muscle read as “rijokin.” It may be a bit difficult to imagine its shape in Japanese pronunciation, but it is where the name comes from.
Characteristics of piriformis muscle
The characteristic of piriformis muscle is that, as its name suggests, it is pear-shaped. It is located in the deep buttocks, and although it occupies a relatively small part of the gluteal muscles, it plays an important role in lower back and leg movements. If the piriformis muscle does not function properly, walking and sitting posture may be affected.
Location and location of piriformis muscle

The piriformis muscle is located inside the pelvis, exactly between the sacrum and femur. The piriformis muscle makes it possible to perform movements such as rotating the femur externally and stabilizing the lower back.
Using a human anatomy diagram, it is possible to understand its specific position and shape in detail.
How to remember piriformis muscle
When memorizing piriformis muscle, it's a good idea to remember the shape of “pear,” which is the origin of its name, and the characteristics located deep in the buttocks. Also, if you memorize the pronunciation of “rijokin” over and over again, it will be easier for it to remain in your memory.
English and Latin for piriformis muscle
It is called “Piriformis muscle” in English, and is similarly called “Musculus piriformis” in Latin. When both are translated literally, they mean “pear-shaped muscle.”
Trivia about piriformis muscle
Piriformis muscle can be strengthened through exercise, stretching, etc. Piriformis muscle care is especially important for runners, cyclists, and other people who do sports that overuse the lower body. Also, since it may compress the sciatic nerve, people who work a lot while sitting should also pay attention to the piriformis muscle.
Tissues associated with piriformis muscle: characteristics of hip abduction
The piriformis muscle is a muscle located deep in the pelvis and extends from the pelvis to the upper part of the femur. When this muscle contracts, the femur rotates outward, that is, an abduction of the hip joint occurs. This exercise is performed naturally, especially when standing or walking.
Hip abduction contributes to maintaining balance and improving the efficiency of bipedal walking. For example, when standing on one leg or climbing stairs, hip abduction is required more strongly. Furthermore, in sports such as running and soccer, the abductor muscles of the hip joint, including piriformis, are important for good performance.
Tissues related to piriformis muscle: location and position of hip abduction
The piriformis muscle is difficult to see directly because it is located deep within the pelvis. However, its presence can be sensed through palpation. This muscle starts at the front of the sacrum and is inserted into the large trochanter of the femur. Due to this arrangement, the piriformis muscle contributes not only to hip abduction, but also to spine stability.
The position of the piriformis muscle is important for coordinating movement around the hip joint, and improper training or lack of exercise can cause piriformis syndrome. This indicates a condition where pain or numbness occurs when a nerve is compressed by the piriformis muscle.
Tissues associated with piriformis muscle: trivia about hip abduction
There is a variety of health trivia about piriformis muscle and hip abduction. For example, staying in the same position for a long time puts a strain on the piriformis muscle and causes pain and discomfort. Particular attention should be paid when working at a desk or driving for a long time.
Also, by performing appropriate stretches and exercises, it is possible to strengthen the abductor muscles of the hip joint, including piriformis muscle, and improve function. Yoga and Pilates can be expected to strengthen the area around the hip joint and increase flexibility.
To maintain hip abduction health, piriformis muscle care is very important. By reviewing exercise habits in daily life, implementing appropriate stretches, and trying to improve posture, you can support the health of hip abductor muscle groups, including piriformis muscle.
Thus, the piriformis muscle plays a central role in hip abduction and has an important influence on our daily lives and sports activities. In order to maintain the health of piriformis muscle and hip abduction, proper knowledge and care are essential, and care must be taken in everyday life.
Piriformis quiz with correct answers
Q: What happens when the piriformis muscle becomes too tense?
A: It may cause sciatica.
summary
This time, I explained the location and location of “piriformis muscle”, how to memorize it, and the English/Latin notation.
How was it?
I would be happy if reading this article deepened my understanding of anatomy.
Learning is a long, never-ending journey, but I sincerely wish you all the best. Let's continue to study together and work hard for the national exam!
Please look forward to the next blog.
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