The Effect of Kinesio Taping Technique on Trigger Point of Piriformis Muscle

Piriformis syndrome is a peripheral neuritis of the sciatic nerve caused by an abnormal condition of the piriformis muscle. Some investigators consider it as a form of Myofacial pain syndrome which defined as the presence of exquisite tenderness at a nodule in a palpable taut band of muscle. Trigger points are able to produce referred pain, either spontaneously or on digital compression. Although myofascial trigger points are a widely recognized phenomenon in clinical practice, there remains much to be elucidated with regards to their pathophysiology. Conservative pharmacotherapy with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), muscle relaxants, and physical therapy modalities such as heat therapy, cold therapy, ultrasound, electrical current and stretching were traditionally used in the treatment of trigger points.

The utilization of Kinesio taping regarding to the proposed mechanisms including 1) restoring correct muscle function by supporting weakened muscles, (2) reducing congestion by improving the flow of blood and lymphatic fluid, (3) decreasing pain by stimulating neurological system, and (4) correcting misaligned joints by retrieving muscle spasm (5) enhancing proprioception through increased stimulation to cutaneous mechanoreceptors can be helpful in restoring muscle function in patients with Myofacial trigger points . However, there are not many controlled studies that have analyzed the effects of the Kinesio taping in their treatment. Therefore, the purpose of study was to determine the efficacy of KT application as an easy and appropriate method on trigger point of piriformis muscle.