Piriformis Special Tests

Pace Abduction Test

To do:

With the client seated and their hips flexed to 90 degrees and knees together,

The therapist places both hands on the lateral side of the clients knees, holding them together.

The client then attempts to move their knees apart while the therapist resists

Positive sign:

Weakness in piriformis if the client cannot move their knees apart

Piriformis Length Test

To do:

With the client prone and their knees close together,

The therapist has them flex their knees to 90 degrees.

The client then slowly separates the lower legs from the midline, while keeping the knees together.

Normal internal rotation is 45-50 degrees. 

Positive sign:

The internal rotation is less than 45 degrees

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