Effect On The Length Of Piriformis Muscle In Patients Suffering From Low Back Pain With Radiculopathy Versus Low Back Pain Without Radiculopathy

Abstract

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a common musculoskeletal condition, often associated with dysfunction in the piriformis muscle. The length of the piriformis muscle may influence the severity and type of symptoms, particularly in cases with radiculopathy. This study investigates the differences in piriformis muscle length in patients with LBP with and without radiculopathy.

Objective: To compare the piriformis muscle length in patients with LBP with radiculopathy to those with LBP without radiculopathy.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 80 patients aged 18–45 years. Participants were divided into two groups: LBP with radiculopathy (Group A) and LBP without radiculopathy (Group B). The piriformis muscle length was assessed using a standardized inclinometer-based technique and palpation. Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant differences between groups.

Results: The mean piriformis muscle length was significantly reduced in the radiculopathy group (Group A) compared to the non-radiculopathy group (Group B) (p < 0.05). A strong correlation was observed between reduced piriformis length and increased symptom severity in Group A.

Conclusion: The piriformis muscle length is significantly affected in patients with LBP with radiculopathy compared to those without radiculopathy. This finding highlights the need for targeted interventions addressing piriformis muscle dysfunction in managing radiculopathy-related symptoms.