The piriformis muscle syndrome – anatomy, diagnosis and the role of physiotherapy. A Review

Abstract

This review examines the role of the physiotherapist in diagnosing piriformis muscle syndrome (PS), taking into account the exact anatomy of the muscle and the arsenal of tests the physiotherapist can use. In the works we researched, talking about PS ignores the role of the physiotherapist as the first specialist the patient should turn to. Many works emphasize the physician’s physical examination and often surgical intervention. The participation of a physiotherapist in the process of diagnosing ailments such as PS requires further research, but already with a high degree of reliability, a physiotherapeutic examination can speed up the process of diagnosis and treatment.

Hamstring tendon muscle injuries – anatomy, mechanisms and rehabilitation

“…Non-modifiable factors include age and the presence of HSI and other injuries to this area in the past. Modifiable risk factors include: hamstring weakness and fatigue, lack of adequate preparation for eccentric hamstring and concentric quadriceps movements, decreased quadriceps flexibility, decreased and flexibility of hip flexors and deficits in strength and coordination of pelvic and trunk muscles [11][12][13][14]. It is also worth noting that hamstring injuries more often occur on uneven surfaces (in sports like football or field hockey) than on a uniform surface (ice hockey or basketball) [13].…”

“…Determining the exact source of the injury is crucial to determining the most appropriate treatment and expediting a safe recovery. Considering the potential causes of posterior thigh pain, the differential diagnosis for acute hamstring injury includes hamstring tendon rupture, hamstring rupture, proximal hamstring tendinopathy, and referred posterior thigh pain [11].…”