Can targeted muscle techniques outperform standard therapy for piriformis pain?

This study tests whether two hands-on therapies—muscle energy technique and myofascial release—can improve pain, muscle strength, and activation in people with piriformis syndrome, a condition where a deep buttock muscle irritates the sciatic nerve. About 72 adults aged 18–65 with the condition will receive one of the techniques alongside conventional physical therapy for 8 weeks. Researchers will use objective tools like pressure sensors and electromyography to measure changes, aiming to identify which approach offers better relief.