EFFECTIVENESS OF PNF STRETCHING (CONTRACT-RELAX) IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS

Abstract

Osteoarthritis of the knee causes pain, restricted range of motion (ROM), diminished physical function, and other symptoms. Due to severe muscular weakness, stiffness, and joint pain, people with knee OA have demonstrated a reduction in their ability to use their lower limbs functionally1 .Hence the need for study is to compare the PNF stretching and conventional treatment in improving physical function and reducing pain in knee osteoarthritis. Objective: The goal of the research is to determine how PNF Stretching Technique and Conventional exercise affect knee osteoarthritis pain and physical function. Method: STUDY DESIGN: Experimental study. SAMPLING TECHNIQUE: Convenient Sampling technique. SAMPLE SIZE: 30. Result:The data that had been gathered was statistically analysed using an unpaired t-test. Compared to the traditional group, the PNF group exhibits, the test indicates significant effects (p 0.05) in lowering pain and improving physical function, as assessed by the NPRS and WOMAC questionnaires. Conclusion:PNF stretching exercises were found to be more successful than conventional exercise in OA knee patients in relieving pain and improving functional ability. Key Words:Osteoarthritis, NPRS, WOMAC questionnaire, PNF Stretching exercise , conventionaltherapy.