Post-isometric relaxation versus active isolated stretching for piriformis syndrome
Comparative Effects Of Post Isometric Relaxation Versus Active Isolated Stretch In Patients With Piriformis Syndrome
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
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years to 55 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Foundation University Islamabad Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Islamabad, Punjab Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT07526012 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
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.
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.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Islamabad, Punjab Province
- 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
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.