Piriformis syndrome affects which nerve in the body?

Prepare for the MBLEx Massage Therapy Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Get ready for your certification!

Piriformis syndrome is a condition that occurs when the piriformis muscle, located in the buttock region, spasms or tightens and compresses the sciatic nerve. This compression can lead to symptoms such as pain, tingling, or numbness that radiate into the buttock and down the leg. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body and runs from the lower back, through the buttocks, and down the back of each leg, making it highly susceptible to issues arising from the piriformis muscle.

In contrast, the other nerves listed do not typically relate to piriformis syndrome. The femoral nerve primarily serves the anterior compartment of the thigh and is involved in knee extension and hip flexion. The median nerve mainly functions in the forearm and hand, providing sensation to parts of the hand and controlling some muscles that flex the wrist and fingers. The radial nerve innervates the muscles on the back of the arm and forearm, responsible for extending the arm and wrist. Thus, understanding that the sciatic nerve is directly impacted by the dysfunction of the piriformis muscle is key to recognizing the effects of piriformis syndrome.

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