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Abstract

Background: Piriformis syndrome is characterized by pain due to compression of the sciatic nerve by the pressure of the piriformis muscle, leading to discomfort in the buttocks, sciatica, or a combination of both. Physical therapy is regarded as a crucial intervention for individuals experiencing piriformis syndrome. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of myofascial release technique in addition to conventional physical therapy on the pain, range of motion and functional disability in patients with piriformis syndrome. Methodology: A total of 46 patients (20 males and 46 females) who had been pre-diagnosed with piriformis syndrome by an orthopedic physician were evaluated at Surriya Azeem Surgical Hospital in Pattoki. After meeting the inclusion criteria, the participants were assigned randomly to two groups; one received standard physical therapy while the other was given myofascial release techniques in addition to conventional physiotherapy. The exclusion criteria encompass any injury of the lower extremity, lumbar radiculopathy, any systemic disease, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, lower extremity fractures, any congenital deformity, and any cognitive issues. The outcome measures like range of motion, pain, and functional disability were evaluated utilising the numerical pain rating scale, a goniometer, and the Lower Extremity Function Test, respectively. Data collection occurred at baseline, following six sessions, and again after twelve sessions. The non-parametric Friedman test was used for between-group analysis, and the Mann-Whitney U test was used for within-group analysis. Results: The average rank for the numeric pain rating scale at baseline, 6th and 12th sessions was 2.50, 2.35, and 1.15, respectively (p=0.00). The average rank of external rotation and abduction for baseline were 4.55 and 6.87 for the 6th session, 6.32 and 8.21, and for the 12th session were 6.32 and 8.21, respectively, (p=0.00). The average rank for LEFS at baseline, 6th and 12th sessions was 6.95, 9.08, and 10.19 (p=0.000). Based on the results, conventional physical therapy demonstrated a significant difference in pain, range of motion and functional disability at different sessions. Conclusion: Myofascial release, along with conventional physical therapy, is notably effective in relieving pain, enhancing the range of motion, and decreasing functional disability.