Ultrasound-guided vs. Blinded Dry Needling for Piriformis Syndrome

Ultrasound-guided vs. Blinded Dry Needling for Piriformis Syndrome: A Randomized Trial

This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided versus blinded dry needling for the treatment of piriformis syndrome.

This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the efficacy of ultrasound-guided versus blinded dry needling for the treatment of piriformis syndrome. Patients in both groups will receive three weekly sessions of dry needling performed by a single experienced physiatrist. The intervention will involve inserting a sterile acupuncture needle into the trigger points of the piriformis muscle and manipulating the needle to elicit a twitch response. Patients in the ultrasound-guided group will receive dry needling under real-time ultrasound guidance, while patients in the blinded group will receive dry needling without ultrasound guidance. Patients will be assessed before treatment, after treatment, after the third week, and after three months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male or female patients aged 18-65 years.
• Clinical diagnosis of piriformis syndrome based on the following criteria: buttock pain, radiating pain to the posterior thigh, and tenderness over the piriformis muscle.
• Pain intensity of at least 4 out of 10 on a visual analog scale (VAS).
• Willingness to comply with the study protocol and provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous surgery or injection therapy for piriformis syndrome.
• Contraindications to dry needling, such as bleeding disorders or skin infections.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• History of neurological disorders, such as sciatica, radiculopathy, or neuropathy.
• History of serious psychiatric illness or substance abuse.
• Inability to complete the study questionnaires or follow-up assessments.