piriformis muscle
The piriformis muscle is a small, pear-shaped muscle located deep in the buttock, behind the gluteus maximus. It plays a crucial role in the movement of the hip joint, helping with the rotation and stabilization of the thigh. The muscle originates from the sacrum and attaches to the femur, allowing it to assist in activities like walking and running.
In some individuals, the sciatic nerve runs close to or through the piriformis muscle. This anatomical variation can lead to a condition known as piriformis syndrome, where the muscle irritates the sciatic nerve, causing pain, tingling, or numbness in the buttocks and down the leg.