FREQUENCY OF PIRIFORMIS SYNDROME AMONG PROFESSIONAL DRIVERS AND ITS IMPACT ON QUALITY OF LIFE

Abstract

Background: Piriformis syndrome (PS) is a neuromuscular disorder that can cause pain in the buttock’s region and possibly sciatic-like pain, especially if you tend to sit for extended periods. The long sitting time and repetitive movements of the lower limbs of professional drivers can lead to musculoskeletal problems. But there is still limited evidence on the occurrence of PS and its association with quality of life in professional drivers.

Objective: To determine the frequency of piriformis syndrome among professional drivers and assess its association with quality of life.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was done among 267 male professional drivers in Rawalpindi and Islamabad ranging in age between 25 and 45 years. Convenience sampling was used for recruiting participants. The Seated Piriformis Stretch Test, Active Piriformis Test and Pace Test were used to evaluate piriformis syndrome, and the Slump Test was used to do a differential assessment. The Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) was used to assess pain intensity, and WHOQOL-BREF was used to assess the quality of life. SPSS (version 27) software was used for data analysis. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used.

Results: Sixty-eight (25.5%) participants had clinical findings suggestive of piriformis syndrome. Of the affected participants, 62 (91.2%) said that the pain was moderate, 5 (7.4%) said the pain was mild, and 1 (1.5%) said the pain was severe. Significant associations were found between NPRS and physical health (χ² = 271.05, p < 0.001), psychological health (χ² = 276.21, p < 0.001), social relations (χ² = 276.21, p < 0.001), and environment (χ² = 287.39, p < 0.001). All four domains of quality of life were also significantly related to Piriformis syndrome (χ² = 267.00, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: One-quarter of professional drivers had clinical findings compatible with piriformis syndrome, and they were significantly associated with quality-of-life outcomes. This occupational group may benefit from early screening, ergonomic education and management with physiotherapy.