Piriformis

The piriformis is a muscle of the gluteal region in the lower limb. It is an important landmark which divides the gluteal region into an inferior and superior part.

• Attachments: Originates from the anterior surface of the sacrum. The fibres travel inferiorly and laterally through the greater sciatic foramen to insert onto the greater trochanter of the femur.
• Actions: Lateral rotation and abduction of the lower limb.
• Innervation: Nerve to piriformis.
• Blood Supply: Superior and inferior gluteal artery

By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2025)

Fig 1
The deep muscles of the gluteal region.

By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2025)

Fig 2
The piriformis as an anatomical landmark in the gluteal region.