Effectiveness of Massage Therapy Among Healthcare Workers Suffering From Low Back Pain - a Randomized Controlled Trial
The piriformis muscle can be a contributing factor to low back pain (LBP) due to its anatomical proximity to the sciatic nerve and sacroiliac joint. When the piriformis becomes tight or irritated, it may compress or irritate the sciatic nerve-a condition often referred to as piriformis syndrome-leading to pain that radiates from the lower back to the buttock and down the leg. The goal of this clinical trial is to examine the effectiveness of massage therapy in counteracting symptoms of low back pain (LBP) among healthcare workers. The main question it aims to answer is: \- Can massage of the piriformis muscle and related musculature effectively reduce symptoms in individuals experiencing LBP linked to myofascial or neuromuscular dysfunction? Massage therapy targeting the piriformis and associated muscles (e.g., gluteus maximus, medius, and deep hip rotators) can help by: * Reducing muscle tension and spasms, * Improving local blood circulation, * Alleviating pressure on the sciatic nerve, * Restoring hip mobility and muscle balance.
• Adult healthcare workers
• Aged 30-65 years with chronic nonspecific low back pain for ≥3 months
• No medical contraindications to massage therapy
• Body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 25 kg/m²
• Provided written informed consent