Prevalence Of Piriformis Syndrome And Quality Of Life Among Factory Workers
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66021/pakmcr731Keywords:
Piriformis Syndrome, Factory Workers, Quality Of Life, Musculoskeletal Disorders, Occupational Health, SF-36.Abstract
Background: Musculoskeletal disorders represent the most prevalent occupational health problem globally, with factory workers being particularly vulnerable due to prolonged sitting, repetitive movements, and awkward postures. Piriformis syndrome (PS) remains significantly underdiagnosed in occupational settings.
Objective: To find the prevalence of piriformis syndrome and evaluate quality of life among football manufacturing factory workers.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using non-probability convenience sampling among 197 factory workers aged 25–45 years who reported sitting for 6–9 hours daily. Both male and female workers were included. Individuals with postural deformities (lumbar lordosis or scoliosis), pregnancy, history of total hip replacement, or lumbar radiculopathy were excluded. The clinical provocative tests included the FAIR test, Pace sign, Beatty sign, SLR test, and Freiberg sign. Quality of life was measured using the Short Form-36 (SF-36) Health Survey.
Results: The FAIR test showed the highest positivity rate (77.7%), followed by Pace sign (67.0%), Beatty sign (59.9%), SLR test (53.8%), and Freiberg sign (44.2%). Female workers demonstrated higher positivity rates across most clinical tests than males. SF-36 scores indicated reduced quality of life, with the lowest mean scores in bodily pain (28.9 ± 16.2) and role limitations due to physical health (35.8 ± 21.4).
Conclusion: Piriformis syndrome is highly prevalent among factory workers with prolonged sitting and is associated with significantly impaired quality of life. Workplace ergonomic strategies and early screening are recommended to reduce occupational risk.
