ASSOCIATION OF PIRIFORMIS SYNDROME WITH LONG SITTING HOURS AND ITS IMPACT ON DAILY FUNCTIONAL ACTIVITIES AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

Background: Piriformis Syndrome (PS) is a neuromuscular condition characterized by the compression of the sciatic nerve due to hypertrophy or tightness of the piriformis muscle. It commonly presents with gluteal pain radiating to the lower limb and is often misdiagnosed as lumbosacral radiculopathy. Contributing factors include prolonged sitting, sedentary lifestyle, and poor postural habits, particularly prevalent among university students engaged in extended academic activities.

Objective: To determine the association between sitting duration, pain intensity, and functional disability among university students diagnosed with Piriformis Syndrome.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 80 university students aged 18–30 years in Faisalabad, Pakistan. Participants were selected using non-probability convenience sampling. Diagnosis of Piriformis Syndrome was made using clinical tests including the FAIR (Flexion, Adduction, Internal Rotation) and Lasegue tests. Pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and functional disability was assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Pearson correlation was applied to evaluate relationships among variables, while multiple linear regression was used to predict pain based on sitting duration, age, BMI, clinical test outcomes, and physical activity.

Results: The mean age of participants was 23.19 ± 3.80 years, and mean BMI was 21.17 ± 2.86 kg/m². A significant positive correlation was found between sitting duration and pain intensity (r = 0.65, p < 0.001). Each additional hour of sitting was associated with a 1.36-point increase in VAS score (B = 1.3557, p < 0.001). Lifting activity also showed a significant association with pain (β = 0.5028, p = 0.028), whereas walking, standing, and sleeping did not show significant relationships (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: Prolonged sitting is a significant contributor to pain and functional limitations in students with Piriformis Syndrome. Preventive ergonomic strategies, physical activity promotion, and therapeutic interventions are recommended to alleviate symptoms and enhance quality of life in academic populations.