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Effectiveness of Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique versus Conventional Exercise on Subjects with Piriformis Syndrome
Corresponding Author(s) : P Bright Alwin Victor
International Journal of Allied Medical Sciences and Clinical Research,
Vol. 14 No. 4 (2026): 2026 Volume 14-Issue 4
Abstract
Background: Piriformis syndrome is a neuromuscular disorder characterized by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle, resulting in pain and reduced hip range of motion. Conservative physiotherapy interventions such as Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique (INIT) and conventional exercise are commonly used; however, evidence comparing their effectiveness remains limited.
Objective: To compare the effectiveness of INIT and conventional exercise in reducing pain and improving hip range of motion in subjects with piriformis syndrome.
Methods: A comparative study was conducted among 40 subjects with piriformis syndrome, who were allocated into two groups (n=20 each). Group A received INIT, while Group B received conventional exercise for 8 weeks. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and hip abduction and internal rotation range of motion were measured using a goniometer before and after the intervention.
Results: Both groups demonstrated significant improvement following treatment. However, Group A showed significantly greater reduction in VAS scores and greater improvement in hip abduction and internal rotation range of motion compared with Group B (p<0.05).
Conclusion: INIT was more effective than conventional exercise in reducing pain and improving hip range of motion in subjects with piriformis syndrome. It may be considered an effective conservative physiotherapy intervention for the management of piriformis syndrome.