When the hip is extended, which action does the piriformis primarily perform?

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Multiple Choice

When the hip is extended, which action does the piriformis primarily perform?

In an extended hip, the piriformis works mainly to externally rotate the thigh. Its fibers run from the sacrum to the greater trochanter in a path that, when the hip is not flexed, pulls the femur to turn outward. Abduction is more characteristic when the hip is flexed, while internal rotation and flexion are not the primary actions of this muscle in the extended position. So the main action in extension is external rotation.

In an extended hip, the piriformis works mainly to externally rotate the thigh. Its fibers run from the sacrum to the greater trochanter in a path that, when the hip is not flexed, pulls the femur to turn outward. Abduction is more characteristic when the hip is flexed, while internal rotation and flexion are not the primary actions of this muscle in the extended position. So the main action in extension is external rotation.

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