Piriformis

The piriformis muscle is a located in the gluteal area. It helps rotate the hip. It is also famously near the sciatic nerve, which travels from the spine through the pelvis and down the leg. Due to its proximity to this large nerve, tightness at the piriformis and nearby muscles can often contribute to sciatica pain. It is important to both strengthen and stretch the piriformis muscle to promote could hip mobility and mechanics.