| Eluri Mani Sandhya Devi1, Pramod Kashyap C2, Pavithra M3 |
| Corresponding Author: 1Assistant Professor, College of Physiotherapy , School of Health Sciences, Dayananda Sagar University, Bengaluru South Dt., Karnataka, India, Email: sandhyadevi-physio@dsu.edu.in Co Authors: 2Assistant Professor, College of Physiotherapy – School of Health Sciences, Dayananda Sagar University, Bengaluru South Dt., Karnataka, India, Email: pramod.kashyap-physio@dsu.edu.in 3Bachelor of Physiotherapy, College of Physiotherapy – School of Health Sciences, Dayananda Sagar, University, Bengaluru South Dt., Karnataka, India |
Abstract
| Background: Piriformis syndrome is a neuromuscular condition caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve by the Piriformis muscle. Although commonly reported in adults, its prevalence among young sedentary populations such as college students remains underexplored. Objective of the study is to determine the prevalence of Piriformis syndrome among college students aged 18–25 years and to assess the associated functional disability. Methods: A cross-sectional prevalence study was conducted among 96 college students in South Bangalore using convenient sampling. Piriformis syndrome was screened using the Flexion–Adduction–Internal Rotation (FAIR) test. Functional disability was assessed using the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMQ). Descriptive statistics, independent sample t-tests, chi-square tests, and Pearson correlation were applied using SPSS version 29.0. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A positive FAIR test indicative of Piriformis syndrome was observed in 29.2% of participants. The mean RMQ score was 8.85 ± 4.67, corresponding to a disability percentage of 36.72 ± 19.44. Male students demonstrated significantly higher RMQ scores and disability percentages compared to females (p<0.05). Participants with a positive FAIR test showed significantly greater disability than those who tested negative. Conclusion: Piriformis syndrome is relatively prevalent among college students and is associated with mild to moderate functional disability. Early screening and preventive physiotherapy strategies are recommended to reduce disability in this young sedentary population. Keywords: College students; FAIR test; Piriformis syndrome; Prolonged sitting; Roland-Morris questionnaire |
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