Understanding the FAIR Test (Flexion, Adduction, Internal Rotation for Piriformis) Assessment
To assess for **Piriformis Syndrome**, where the piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve.
Watch How It's Done
How do I start?
Patient is side-lying on the unaffected side. Hip is flexed to 60°-90°.
What happens?
The examiner applies a combination of hip **flexion, adduction, and internal rotation** (similar to the FADIR position, but with more emphasis on muscle length).
In Plain English
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
Reproduction of **pain or buttock/posterior hip symptoms** that travel down the leg (sciatic distribution), indicating irritation of the nerve by the piriformis muscle.
Helpful Tip:
The stretch/compression is created by the piriformis being forcefully lengthened and rotated over the sciatic nerve.
Safety First
This guide is to help you understand what happens in a clinic. Do not try to diagnose yourself. If you have severe pain, swelling, or cannot put weight on your leg, please visit an urgent care center or your doctor immediately.
Other Hip/Lumbar Nerve Tension Tests
Bowstring Sign (or Slump Test Variation)
To assess for **Sciatic Nerve irritation or tension** due to disc herniation or other space-occupying lesions. *Note: This is often an extension of the Straight Leg Raise (SLR) test.*
Femoral Nerve Tension Test
To assess for mechanical tension or irritation of the **Femoral Nerve** (L2-L4 nerve roots).