Abstract
Osteoarthritis of knee is a common problem in the elderly population worldwide. Physical therapy has been shown to be useful in decreasing pain and increasing mobility in this population. The aim of this study was to study the effectiveness of slow reversal hold and isometric exercise techniques in reducing pain, increasing muscle strength, and increasing range of motion for knee flexion in patients with osteoarthritis of knee. The other aim of this study was to compare the relative effectiveness of these two interventions. 60 subjects participated in this study and were randomly assigned either to the slow reversal hold group (n = 30) or, to the isometrics exercise group (n = 30). All subjects performed their respective exercises for 3 weeks. Pain scores using the visual analog scale, muscle strength using manual muscle testing of quadriceps and hamstrings, and range of motion (ROM) for knee flexion using a goniometer were recorded both pre-treatment and post-treatment for both left and right knees. Both the interventions showed a significant decrease in pain scores, an increase in muscle strength, as well as an increase in the ROM. However, ROM was significantly increased in the slow reversal hold group as compared to the isometrics group in both knees. It was concluded that both exercise techniques could be useful in patients with osteoarthritis of knee for decreasing pain and increasing muscle strength. Slow reversal hold technique might be a better technique than isometrics for increasing ROM for knee flexion.
Highlights
Osteoarthritis (OA) of knee is a common form of joint disorder, affecting the articular cartilage [1] [2]
The aim of this study was to study the effectiveness of slow reversal hold and isometric exercise techniques in reducing pain, increasing muscle strength, and increasing range of motion for knee flexion in patients with osteoarthritis of knee
This study focused on two interventions—the slow reversal hold, which is a Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) technique, isometric exercises, and their relative effectiveness
Summary
Osteoarthritis (OA) of knee is a common form of joint disorder, affecting the articular cartilage [1] [2]. OA could be caused by a damage to a joint cartilage. The risk factors for OA include obesity, genetics, previous fractures of the knee, and prolonged or excessive use of knee joints [2] [3]. OA results in symptoms such as a deep aching pain in the inner knee, stiffness, swelling, decreased range of motion (ROM), and muscle weakness [1] [3]. The treatment is symptomatic and involves the use of braces, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain relief, muscle relaxants, and exercise. Patients undergo a knee replacement if symptomatic treatment options have been ineffective [3]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
