Effects of Stretching Exercises and Myofascial Pain Release on Pain and Sleep Quality in Antenatal Restless Leg Syndrome

Abstract

Background: Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a condition that plagues many, causing an irresistible urge to move the legs, especially during periods of rest. This condition can be particularly challenging for pregnant women, impacting their sleep quality and overall well-being. Recognizing the need for effective, non-pharmacological interventions, this study delves into comparing the efficacy of two widely used therapies: stretching exercises and myofascial pain release (MPR). Objective: The primary aim was to evaluate and compare the effects of stretching exercises and myofascial pain release on pain reduction and sleep quality improvement in antenatal RLS patients. Methods: Conducted at the gynecology clinic of Khalid Farooqi Memorial Hospital, Hafizabad, this randomized clinical trial enlisted 22 participants, divided into control (n=11) and case (n=11) groups. The case group underwent stretching exercises coupled with infra-red therapy, while the control group received MPR and infra-red therapy. Both interventions were administered twice weekly for eight weeks. Outcomes were measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) at baseline, 4th, and 8th weeks. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 25, employing Shapiro-Wilk, repeated measure ANOVA, and one-way ANOVA tests. Results: Initially, both groups exhibited moderate to severe symptoms. Post-treatment, significant improvements were noted. After 8 weeks of treatment, the study revealed that pregnant women with antenatal restless leg syndrome (RLS) responded better to stretching exercises (Group A) than to myofascial pain release (Group B). Initially, participants in both groups experienced moderate to severe pain and poor sleep quality. By the end of the study, Group A demonstrated significant improvement, with 9 out of 11 participants experiencing minimal pain and 8 out of 11 reporting greatly enhanced sleep quality. While Group B also improved, the results were less significant. This underscores the potential of stretching exercises as a more effective intervention for reducing pain and improving sleep in antenatal RLS. Conclusion: Stretching exercises were found to be more effective than myofascial pain release in reducing pain and improving sleep quality among antenatal RLS patients. Given these findings, healthcare professionals are encouraged to consider stretching exercises as a preferred intervention for RLS symptoms during pregnancy.