Strain-Counterstrain Therapy for Piriformis Muscle Pain to Improve Pain and Function

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to offer a non-invasive and efficient treatment for pain caused by the piriformis muscle. It focuses on adults aged 18 to 65 who have tenderness in the piriformis muscle and evaluates strain-counterstrain therapy as a potential option. The study is investigator-initiated and involves comparing real treatment to a sham procedure to better understand its effects on piriformis pain. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups one receives strain-counterstrain treatment directly on the piriformis muscle, while the other group receives a sham treatment targeting the hamstring muscle. Treatments are given twice, ideally 1 to 2 weeks apart. The therapy involves positioning and passive movement of the leg to reduce pain points, held for 90 seconds each time. During the study, participants will complete the Oswestry Disability Index Questionnaire before the first treatment and after the second. Pain levels are measured using a Visual Analog Scale before and after each treatment, both at rest and during pressure to the piriformis muscle. An algometer is used to objectively measure changes in pressure pain threshold. The overall participation involves two treatment sessions spaced 1 to 2 weeks apart, with pain and disability assessments before, during, and after these sessions.

Strain-Counterstrain Treatment of Piriformis Pain