Comparative Effects Of Post Isometric Relaxation Versus Active Isolated Stretch In Patients With Piriformis Syndrome

Comparative Effects Of Post Isometric Relaxation Versus Active Isolated Stretch In Patients With Piriformis Syndrome

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the comparative effects of post-isometric relaxation (PIR) and active isolated stretch (AIS) techniques on reducing pain, improving range of motion, and decreasing functional disability in individuals with piriformis syndrome. A total of 40 participants will be recruited, aged 20-55 yrs, with confirmed piriformis syndrome. Participants will be randomized into two equal groups. Group A (post isometric relaxation) and Group B (active isolated stretch). Both groups will receive Conventional Therapy (Thermotherapy, Electrotherapy).

Study variables include:

• Independent Variable: Post Isometric Relaxation and Active Isolated Stretching.
• Dependent Variables: Pain (measured by Visual Analog Scale), Functional Disability (assessed via Oswestry Disability Index), Range of Motion (assessed via Goniometer).
• Control Variables: Age, Gender, BMI, Baseline Pain/ Disability Scores/ROM

The intervention will last 2 weeks with 6 sessions (3 sessions per week). Assessments will be conducted at baseline (Week 1, Pre-treatment) and Post every second session. Data will be analyzed to compare immediate and short-term effects of the two interventions.

This study aims to provide evidence for targeted manual therapy approaches in priformis syndrome, potentially guiding clinicians toward the most effective technique for pain reduction, improve ROM and decrease functional disability.

This Randomized Controlled Trial aims to effects of post-isometric relaxation (PIR) and active isolated stretch (AIS) techniques on reducing pain, improving range of motion, and decreasing functional disability in individuals with piriformis syndrome.

A Total of 40 participants will be recruited and randomized equally into two groups.

• Group A: Post Isometric Relaxation
• Group B: Active Isolated Stretching

Both groups will additionally receive conventional management (TENs, Heating).

INTERVENTION SCHEDULE:

• Duration: 2 weeks
• Frequency: 3 Sessions/week
• Total Sessions: 6 Sessions per participant

Group A (PIR): In this group, participant is asked to performed an isometric contraction in supine lying position with one leg crossed over the other, in which participant contracts the targeted muscle against resistance for about 6 to 10 seconds, followed by a relaxation phase of approximately 3 seconds Group B (AIS): In this group participant actively moves the limb to the end range of motion, followed by a brief, 1-2 second stretch applied by the therapist. Move the non-exercising leg across midline and rotate inward. The exercising leg is flexed at a 90° angle at the knee. Move the knee close to the opposite-side breast. Clasp the knee with the near hand and the top of the ankle with the far side hand. Rotate the thigh outward, moving the loot toward the surface with the far-side hand. This process is repeated for 8-10 repetitions.

ASSESSMENTS:

• Conducted at Baseline (Pre-Intervention) and post-intervention (end of week 2)
• Outcomes: Pain Intensity (VAS), Functional Disability (Oswestry Disability Index), ROM (Goniometer)

DATA ANALYSIS:

Intra-group comparisons (Pre vs Post) and Inter-group comparisons (PIR vs AIS) will be performed at the end of the 2-week intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age between 20-55 years
• Both genders
• Buttock pain that may radiates to posterior thigh but not beyond the knee
• Pain aggravated by sitting, climbing stairs or hip rotation.
• Tenderness upon palpation over the sciatic foramen.
• Positive FAIR test.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Malignancies
• History of steroid therapy over 3 months
• Rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis
• Avascular necrosis of the femoral head
• Osteoporosis
• Fracture of the femur
• Hip deformity