ASSOCIATION OF LOW BACK PAIN WITH PIRIFORMIS SYNDROME IN LONG SITTING HOURS AND ITS IMPACT ON FUNCTIONAL ACTIVITIES AMONG OFFICE WORKERS

Abstract

Background: A neuromuscular condition known as piriformis syndrome (PS) is characterized by pain and numbness in the buttocks as a result of the piriformis muscle compressing or irritating the sciatic nerve. The piriformis syndrome can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life. Low back pain is defined as pain that is localized between the 12th rib and the lower part of the gluteal folds, with or without pain radiating to the legs. Low back pain is the primary cause of activity limitation and can result in socioeconomic losses to an individual

Objective: To determine the association of piriformis syndrome and low back pain with long sitting hours and its impact on functional activities among office workers

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in office workers of Layyah.  Sample size was 46. Age group was 25 years and above. Both males and females were included. Participants were selected through non-probability convenience sampling technique made aware of study. Written consent form was taken. Fair test was performed. Data collection tool was modified Oswestry disability index (MODI). Moreover, all the participants included in this study had vehicles.  All the office workers and bankers were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria

RESULTS: A total number of 46 workers participated, who had an average age of 34.21 ± 5.05 years. The majority were male (60.9%), reported sitting for more than 8 hours a day. Most participants had reported mild pain and little functional limitations, especially standing, walking, and sleeping activities. There was a significant positive correlation between sitting duration and pain whilst performing walking (rₛ = 0.578, p = 0.001), this means that pain during walking had increased as sitting duration increases.

Conclusion: Prolonged sitting among office workers was associated with mild low back pain and slight functional difficulties, especially during standing, walking, and sleeping. Overall, longer sitting hour’s negatively affected daily physical activities and musculoskeletal health