Comparative Effects of PIR and PFS on Pain, Hip ROM, and Disability in Piriformis Syndrome

Overview

This randomized clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of Post-Isometric Relaxation (PIR) and Post-Facilitation Stretching (PFS) for managing pain, improving hip abduction and internal rotation, and enhancing functional capacity in patients with Piriformis Syndrome. Thirty-six participants will be assessed at baseline and six weeks using pain scores, hip range of motion, and functional scales to determine which technique provides superior outcomes.

Piriformis Syndrome (PS) is a musculoskeletal condition characterized by pain in the buttock and hip, sometimes radiating to the lower back and thigh. It may arise from anatomical variations affecting the sciatic nerve, inflammation, hypertrophy, muscle spasms, or shortening of the piriformis muscle. PS can significantly reduce hip range of motion and functional capacity, affecting patients' quality of life. This randomized clinical trial aimed to compare the effectiveness of two rehabilitation techniques, Post-Isometric Relaxation (PIR) and Post-Facilitation Stretching (PFS), in managing pain, improving hip abduction and internal rotation, and enhancing functional capacity in patients with PS. Thirty-six participants aged 35-55 years, of both genders, diagnosed with sub-acute or chronic PS, and meeting specific clinical criteria, were randomly assigned to either intervention group. Inclusion criteria included positive findings on at least three of the following tests: Piriformis, Beatty, Freiberg, FAIR, Sign of Pace, and Nagel tonic external rotation of hip; bilateral buttock pain due to sciatic nerve or piriformis muscle spasm; NPRS pain score of 3-7; tenderness over the sciatic foramen; and willingness to participate. Exclusion criteria included spinal, hip, knee, or SI joint pathology, prior spinal surgery or vertebral fracture, systemic disease, limb length discrepancy, postural deformities (e.g., scoliosis), hip dislocation or femoral fracture, and any psychological conditions. Group A (PIR) participants performed exercises lying supine with the affected leg flexed, pelvis stabilized, and piriformis muscle activated through resisted abduction. Group B (PFS) participants performed combined stretching and isometric contractions with the involved leg positioned in hip flexion, adduction, and external rotation. Interventions were conducted over a 4-week period. Assessments were conducted at baseline and six weeks using: Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) to quantify pain intensity Goniometer - to measure hip abduction and internal rotation range Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) to assess functional disability; a 20-item scale rated on a Likert scale (total score 0-80), with lower scores indicating greater disability The objective of this study was to determine which rehabilitation technique, PIR or PFS, is more effective in alleviating pain, improving hip range of motion, and enhancing functional outcomes, ultimately aiming to improve the quality of life for patients diagnosed with Piriformis Syndrome.

Conditions

Interventions

Eligibility

Locations (1)

Outcomes