Post-isometric relaxation versus active isolated stretching for piriformis syndrome
Official title: Comparative Effects Of Post Isometric Relaxation Versus Active Isolated Stretch In Patients With Piriformis Syndrome
Run by Foundation University Islamabad · NCT07526012 · Data updated 2026-11-12
We are testing whether post-isometric relaxation or active isolated stretching better reduces pain and improves movement in adults aged 20–55 with piriformis syndrome.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 20 Years to 55 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Foundation University Islamabad Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Islamabad, Punjab Province) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 20, 2026 |
| Main results expected | July 1, 2026 |
| Study ends | July 15, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | May 20, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07526012 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 20–55 with clinically confirmed piriformis syndrome (buttock pain possibly radiating to the posterior thigh not beyond the knee, positive FAIR test, and tenderness over the sciatic foramen) are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
People with inflammatory or structural hip conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, avascular necrosis, hip deformity), osteoporosis, femoral fracture history, recent long-term steroid therapy, or pain radiating beyond the knee are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.
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 will enroll 40 adults with confirmed piriformis syndrome and randomly assign them to receive either post-isometric relaxation (PIR) or active isolated stretching (AIS), with both groups also receiving conventional therapies such as thermotherapy and TENS. Interventions are delivered over two weeks with three sessions per week (six sessions total). Primary outcomes are pain measured by the Visual Analog Scale, functional disability by the Oswestry Disability Index, and hip range of motion measured with a goniometer. Baseline assessments will be recorded and compared across groups to identify short-term changes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If one technique proves superior, patients could gain a short, non-drug therapy option to reduce pain and improve hip movement and daily function.
How similar studies have gone: Small clinical studies and practice reports support stretching and muscle-energy techniques for piriformis-related pain, but rigorous randomized comparisons between PIR and AIS are limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
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
Where it's running
-
Foundation University College of Physical Therapy
Islamabad, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Parsa Saghir, DPT — Foundation University Islamabad
- Study coordinator: Parsa Saghir, DPT
- Email: parsa.saghir@gmail.com
- Phone: 0315-8962525
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.