Radial Shockwave Versus Low Level Laser Therapy in Patients With Chronic Piriformis Muscle Syndrome

Physical therapy can be beneficial for patients with piriformis syndrome, including stretching exercises, local massage, and superficial heat. Traditional stretching techniques include external rotation, hip flexion, and adduction. A hot pack on the trigger point area for 10 minutes followed by passive stretching for 30 seconds each.

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive alternative treatment for muscle disorders like sports and traumatic injuries, as it reduces pain and promotes soft tissue repair. In a study, patients in group A were treated with three sessions of Storz Medical Shock Wave MP100, each consisting of 2000 pulses with a total energy dose of 1080 mJ / mm. The study aimed to determine the location of the piriformis muscle in the prone position.

Low Level Laser Therapy, also known as Photo-biomodulation, is a low-intensity light therapy that triggers biochemical changes within cells, similar to photosynthesis in plants. It can treat nociceptive and neuropathic pain, but central pain has not been proven responsive to low level laser therapy.