American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What risk factor is associated with piriformis syndrome?

1. High-impact sports

2. Prolonged sitting

3. Frequent squatting

4. Heavy lifting

The correct answer is: Prolonged sitting

Piriformis syndrome is a condition characterized by pain in the buttock and lower limb due to irritations of the sciatic nerve caused by the piriformis muscle. One of the primary risk factors associated with this condition is prolonged sitting. When an individual sits for extended periods, especially in a position that may cause compression of the piriformis muscle, this can lead to muscle tightness and spasms. Such conditions can irritate or compress the sciatic nerve, resulting in pain and discomfort that characterize piriformis syndrome. Prolonged sitting is particularly relevant in our modern, sedentary lifestyle, where many people spend significant amounts of time in front of computers or sitting in vehicles, which can contribute to the development of this syndrome. This connection highlights the importance of ergonomics and movement breaks for individuals at risk for piriformis syndrome, making avoidance of prolonged sitting a crucial factor in prevention and management.