Actively Recruiting
Effects of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Versus Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretching in Athletes With Piriformis Syndrome
Led by Riphah International University · Updated on 2025-07-29
40
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
4 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are comparing two physiotherapy techniques, Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) stretching, to manage Piriformis Syndrome in athletes aged 18 to 35 years. This 4-week randomized controlled trial involves 40 athletes experiencing chronic buttock and hip pain, aiming to reduce pain, improve muscle flexibility, and enhance functional outcomes. Both treatment groups receive care alongside education and ergonomic advice. Participants are randomly assigned to either the IASTM group, where a specialized instrument applies controlled pressure to the piriformis muscle and surrounding tissues, or the PNF stretching group, which uses hold-relax and contract-relax stretching techniques with active muscle contractions. Both groups also perform warm-up exercises, muscle activation or strengthening activities, and cool-down routines. Ice or heat therapy and home exercise programs are provided as needed. Before starting treatment, all participants undergo assessments for pain intensity using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, hip joint range of motion with goniometric measurement, and functional disability via the Oswestry Disability Index. These outcomes are measured again after 6 weeks. The study involves 3 treatment sessions per week over 4 weeks, with monitoring of progress and safety throughout. Total participation spans 12 months including follow-up.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Versus PNF Stretching in Athletes With Piriformis Syndrome
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- 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
You will not qualify if you...
- 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
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 4 weeks
Participants receive either Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization or Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretching along with physiotherapy management to reduce pain, increase muscle flexibility, and improve functional outcomes.
Multiple visits during the 4-week treatment period
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Pakistan Sports Board
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan, 54000
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
I
Imran Amjad, Phd PT
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
SINGLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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