Non-invasive treatment for piriformis muscle pain
Strain-Counterstrain Treatment of Piriformis Pain
This study is testing a new non-invasive treatment for people with piriformis muscle pain to see if it helps reduce their pain compared to a sham treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Loma Linda University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Loma Linda, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT05023005 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of strain-counterstrain treatment specifically targeting the piriformis muscle in patients experiencing pain. Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving the actual treatment and the other receiving a sham treatment focused on the hamstring muscle. Pain levels will be assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index Questionnaire and the Visual Analog Scale before and after each of the two treatment sessions, which are spaced 1-2 weeks apart. An algometer will also be utilized to measure changes in pain pressure threshold pre and post-treatment.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 65 with a tender point in the piriformis muscle.
Not a fit: Patients with significant hip mobility limitations, active cancer, or those receiving concurrent treatments may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could provide a non-invasive option for patients suffering from piriformis-related pain.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of strain-counterstrain for piriformis pain is less common, similar non-invasive treatments have shown promise in managing musculoskeletal pain.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18 to 65 years of age * Tender point (or trigger point) in piriformis muscle determined by physical exam Exclusion criteria: * Less than 45 degrees of active hip flexion, less than 5 degrees of active hip internal rotation or less than 30 degrees of active hip external rotation, on side of affected piriformis * Unable to lay prone * Non-English speaker * Inability to attend 2 sessions within the same month * Active cancer * Pregnant * Diagnosis of lumbar radiculopathy * Greater than grade 1 lumbar spondylolisthesis * Presence of lumbar region Pars Defect * Receiving massage, acupuncture, chiropractic treatments, osteopathic treatments during study period.
Where this trial is running
Loma Linda, California
- Loma Linda University Health — Loma Linda, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Mickey Lui — Loma Linda University Health
- Study coordinator: Roya Vahdatinia, DO
- Email: rvahdatinia@llu.edu
- Phone: 9095586202
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.