The Piriformis Test is used to identify which syndrome?

• A. Meralgia paresthetica
• B. Iliopsoas syndrome
• C. Obturator nerve entrapment
• D. Piriformis syndrome

Answer: (D)

The Piriformis Test targets irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle, i.e., piriformis syndrome. The piriformis sits near the sciatic nerve, and when it is tight or inflamed, it can push on or entrap the nerve, producing buttock and sciatic-type symptoms. The test positions the hip to stress or stretch the piriformis so that this nerve-piriformis interaction reproduces the patient’s typical pain if piriformis syndrome is present. This distinguishes it from other nerve entrapments or hip-related issues, such as meralgia paresthetica (lateral thigh nerve), obturator nerve entrapment (inner thigh pain), or iliopsoas syndrome (hip flexor pain), making piriformis syndrome the best fit for what the test identifies.