Predisposing factors of Piriformis tightness and its association with low back pain in office workers - a cross sectional study

Abstract

Background: Piriformis tightness causes restricted range of motion and decreased flexibility. It interferes with the physical and social functioning of people and leads to piriformis syndrome if  not diagnosed in initial stages. Objective: To identify the predisposing factors that may cause piriformis tightness and to check its association with low back pain in office workers. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study and convenient sampling technique was used to collect data from the study participants. Sample size was 250 office worker selected through defined inclusion criteria. Selection criteria were people of 26 to 50 years working from at least of 2 years. Seated piriformis test was used to check the presence of piriformis muscle tightness. Visual analogue scale was used for pain assessment and a structured questionnaire was used to check the predisposing factors. After collecting data from study participants it was analyzed through SPSS version 22. Results: Piriformis tightness was found in 76% office workers. About 58% of the study participants reported to work in office for 6 to 8 hours. 88% of workers reported to sit in slouched posture while 78% reported not to have any foot support. Almost 80% of office workers reported work related back pain. Chi square test resulted a significant association of piriformis tightness with low back pain (p<0.05). Conclusion: Piriformis tightness was frequent in office workers. Predisposing factors included prolong working hours, uncomfortable chairs without appropriate foot support, poor posture, and work related back pain. Study also concluded the significant association between low back pain and piriformis tightness.