Joint Effectiveness of Dry Needling and Neurodynamic Mobilisation in Patients Suffering from Piriformis Syndrome: A Case Series.

Introduction: Piriformis Syndrome (PS) is a neuromuscular condition caused due to tightness of piriformis muscle along with the irritation of the sciatic nerve. Management of PS so far involved only musculoskeletal component with none working on the neural component. So, authors intent to work on combined effectiveness of Dry Needling (DN) and Neurodynamic Mobilisation (NDS) as a new emerging technique for better management of PS. Case Report: Four patients were involved (3 females and 1 male) who experienced untreated and recurrent PS for a prolonged period (1-2 years) during their fourth decade. After reassessment of the patients, PS was confirmed by Flexion Adduction and internal rotation (FAIR), Beatty maneuver, and Straight Leg Raise (SLR). Baseline and post measurements were taken using outcome variables VAS, Pain Pressure Threshold, h-reflex, hip rotations range of motion, and Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS). Patients recruited were given a 10-days treatment with dry needling for 10 minutes on alternate days and continuous neurodynamic mobilisation (sliders and tensioners) comprising 30 repetitions/minute for 2 sets with a 1-minute rest in between, in addition to conventional therapy. The study revealed substantial improvement in pain scores, pressure threshold, h-latency, hip rotations and functional capabilities of the lower extremities. A study demonstrated a notably substantial enhancement in addressing symptoms associated with both the muscular and neural aspects, along with the overall improvement in quality of life. Addressing to it neural and muscular with NDS and DN has long lasting effects and reduced frequency of reoccurrence of PS symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]