Comparing instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization versus PNF stretching for athletes with piriformis syndrome.

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled trial at the Pakistan Sports Board, Lahore randomized 40 professional athletes (ages 18–35) to receive either IASTM or PNF stretching three times per week for four weeks. Baseline and follow-up measurements included the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), goniometric hip range of motion (ROM), and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). The IASTM group received instrument-guided soft-tissue work plus stretching and activation exercises, while the PNF group received contract-relax and hold-relax stretching protocols, both with warm-up and cool-down. Outcomes compare short-term pain, flexibility, and function between the two active physiotherapy approaches.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Professional Athletes aged 18 to 35 years.
* Chronic pain in the buttock and hip area.
* Inability to sit for a prolonged time.
* Athletes having positive Faber test
* Both male and female athletes
* Practicing athletes who are in practice from last 2 years.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Trauma history from last 6 months.
* Other injuries excluding hip pain.
* Systemic illness.
* Pre-existing neurological conditions affecting the lower limbs
* History of lower back surgery

Where it's running

• Pakistan Sports Board
  Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Muhammad Hassan, MSPT — Riphah International University
• Study coordinator: Imran Amjad, Phd PT
• Email: imran.amjad@riphah.edu.pk
• Phone: 03324390125

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.