Proprioceptive Training Program Research Articles

Rebuilding Stability: Exploring the Best Rehabilitation Methods for Chronic Ankle Instability.

Background: Chronic Ankle Instability (CAI) is a common condition characterized by repeated episodes of ankle "giving way" and impaired balance, leading to functional limitations. Various rehabilitation techniques, including balance training, proprioceptive exercises, whole-body vibration (WBV), and novel approaches like stroboscopic vision, are used to address these deficits. This review evaluates the effectiveness of different rehabilitation interventions for CAI management. Methods: A review was conducted by analyzing 11 randomized controlled trials that investigated the impact of balance and proprioceptive training programs on CAI. The primary outcomes assessed were the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT), and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale, and the risk of bias was evaluated with the ROB 2 tool. Results: All rehabilitation interventions demonstrated significant improvements in SEBT, CAIT, and FAAM scores. However, no single intervention was found to be consistently superior. Traditional balance training, strength exercises, BAPS, and WBV all provided meaningful functional gains. Stroboscopic vision training showed similar effectiveness compared to conventional approaches. The evidence supports a combination of balance and strength training for optimal recovery. Conclusions: Balance and proprioceptive exercises are effective in managing CAI, with improvements in both dynamic stability and subjective outcomes. No intervention stands out as the best, but personalized programs incorporating various methods are recommended. Future research should explore the long-term effects and potential synergies of combined interventions.

Effects of padel activity and proprioception training on soccer players in an off-season period.

Off-season periods imply considerable changes in the fitness status of soccer players. So far, no studies evaluated the effects of proprioception-focused training during soccer off-season periods. In this work, we assessed how much some players' abilities (static and dynamic balance, reaction times, quickness, strength, and technical skills) were affected by proprioception training and padel activity during an off-season period of 12 weeks. Twenty-eight non-professional adult male soccer players were organized into three groups: a group carried out regular padel activity, ~2 h once a week. Another group underwent a regular proprioception training program, ~ 20 min, twice a week. The third group did not perform any specific activity (control). Static and dynamic balance, reaction times, quickness, strength, and technical skills were evaluated at three time-points: before starting, after 6 weeks, and after 12 weeks. Both padel activity and specific proprioception training carried out for 12 weeks significantly improved players' monopodalic static balance with eyes open and dynamic balance. No significant effects of these training regimens were found on monopodalic static balance with eyes closed, visual and acoustic reaction times, acyclic quickness, and strength. Furthermore, proprioception training considerably improved technical skills. Coaches may use padel activity and proprioception exercises for off-season programs featured by ease of execution, low training volume, and high compliance.

Balance Training and Shooting Performance: The Role of Load and the Unstable Surface.

Military and law enforcement members' shooting ability is influenced by their postural balance, which affects their performance and survivability. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a proprioception training program (standing or walking on unstable surfaces) on postural balance and shooting performance. Twenty participants, divided into two groups, completed 60 shots in a shooting simulator while standing, before and after a 4-week proprioception training program. One group (n = 10) followed the training program (EXP), while the other group followed the regular military academy program (CON). The shooting was conducted under four conditions: without load on a stable surface, with load on a stable surface, without load on an unstable surface, and with load on an unstable surface. The findings reveal that the training program had a significant impact on the EXP, improving their balance (p < 0.01). Additionally, only in the EXP, shooting score and the percentage center of gravity increased (p < 0.01) and the stability of the shots, measured by holding time on the target, doubled from 2.2 to 4.5 s (p < 0.01). These improvements were more pronounced when participants had a load and/or were on an unstable surface. In conclusion, a proprioception training program could be beneficial for improving postural balance and shooting performance.

The Effect of Proprioceptive Training on Hand Function and Activity Limitation After Open Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Study

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of proprioceptive training on hand function and activity limitation in patients undergoing open carpal tunnel release surgery. DesignRandomized controlled study. SettingA university hospital. ParticipantsThirty patients were included in the study and randomized to proprioceptive training (PT) and conventional rehabilitation (CR) groups. InterventionOne week after surgery, both groups received CR for 6 weeks. All participants were asked to perform home-based exercises daily in 3 sets with 10 repetitions. For the PT group, a 6-step PT program was conducted starting from Week 6. Both groups received face-to-face interventions twice a week for 12 weeks. Main Outcome MeasuresThe outcome measures included the Purdue Pegboard Test (PPT), the joint position sense test (JPST), the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire, and the Patient-Specific Functional Scale. In total, 3 assessments were performed (at 1, 6 and 12 weeks postoperatively). ResultsIn the PT group, the results for PPT were statistically significant (P<.05). Although there was a greater decrease in the absolute angular error value (JPST) of the PT group compared to the CR group, the difference was nonsignificant (P>.05). Similar reductions in activity limitation were seen in both groups (PT: 176%, CR: 175%). Symptom severity decreased by 40% in the PT group vs 32% in the CR group. The effect sizes were larger for the changes between the second and third assessments in the PT group compared to the CR group in all parameters tested. ConclusionWhen applied after carpal tunnel release surgery, PT may potentially to improve hand functions, reduce activity limitation, increase participation in activities of daily living, and thus improve quality of life.

Influence of proprioceptive training on fencing athlete’s performance: a clinical trial

Background: Fencing is an agility sport and is characterized by a combination of short and frequent high intensity movements. Proprioceptive training demonstrates a positive effect on athletes' performance. It is effective in increasing dynamic balance by reducing ankle muscle reaction time that stabilize joint. Objective: The aim of this study was to verify influence of a 12-week proprioceptive training program on ankle instability, jumping performance and ankle muscle’s reaction time during Lunge in fencing athletes. Method: The study was a clinical trial, non-randomized, with 19 fencing athletes from 14-35-year-old, divided in intervention group (n=10) and control group (n=9). The study was performed in four stages: familiarization of jump performance; pre-intervention; intervention and post-intervention. At pre-intervention was evaluated jump performance, ankle muscle reaction time and functional ankle instability. At the intervention, athletes performed 30 minutes of proprioceptive training for 12 weeks, three times a week. At post-intervention, the same pre-intervention tests were performed. Data were presented in mean and standard error, submitted to the Generalized Estimates Equations test with Bonferroni post hoc. The level of significance was 0,05. Results: Jump performance decreased significantly in both groups. Anterior tibial muscle reaction time did not differ neither in any of groups, nor in any of legs. The peroneus longus and lateral gastrocnemius reaction time decreased significantly in both groups. Regarding functional ankle instability, athletes had instability at pre- and post-intervention time. Conclusion: Proprioceptive training program was not able to improve jump performance, nor to decrease ankle muscle reaction time or improve athletes' perception of ankle stability.

Influence of proprioception and balance training program on ankle instability among young athletes

Influence of proprioception and balance training program on ankle instability among young athletes

Effect of Proprioceptive Training on Reaction Time: A Randomized Control Trial

Introduction: Reaction time is an important indicator of good performance. Different types of exercises have been used by researchers to improve the reaction time of an individual. Other types of exercises still need more research to study their effect on simple reaction time, such as proprioceptive training. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of a proprioceptive training program using the Huber machine on the simple reaction time.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: Twenty-one participants from the medical staff were assigned to two groups including the experimental group (1) composed of 5 male and 5 female participants and a control group (2) including 5 male and 6 female participants. A simple reaction time (SRT) test was assigned to all participants. Only the experimental group performed a proprioceptive exercise protocol on Huber motion’s platform, while the control group was tested at identical periods without exercising before the training (T0), immediately post-exercise (T1), and twenty minutes after exercising (T2). The procedure was repeated for six sessions over two weeks.&#x0D; Results: The participants of the group (1) show a decrease in the mean of RT (-43 min) immediately after proprioceptive training (T1), but they reveal a little increase (at T2) in SRT after an interval of 20 minutes (-23 min). They still prove a retention effect, while few participants in the control group show improvement at T1 or T2. Paired sample t-test was significant for the group (1) at T1 and T2 (P&lt;0.05) while it was not significant for the control group.&#x0D; Conclusion: Proprioceptive training may have a positive influence on reaction time with a retention effect. Clinicians can use proprioceptive training to improve the reaction time of their patients.

The Effect of Proprioceptive Training Program on Joint Position Senses, Balance Ability and Agility of Male Volleyball Players

This study aimed to find the effects of proprioception training for improving ankle and trunk joint position senses, balance ability, agility and power, and thereby to lay the theoretical ground of proprioceptive training for preventing volleyball players' injuries and improving their athletic performance. As the subjects of this study, 30 male players in Korea Volleyball Federation (KOVO), who had the career as volleyball players, were selected. The active motion mode of the Humac NORM (CSMI, U.S.A.), the isokinetic testing equipment to measure ankle joint and trunk position sense accurately, was used to measure inversion, eversion, plantar flexion, dorsi flexion and trunk flexion joint position. For balance ability, static and dynamic balance ability evaluated. One leg standing with closed eyes test was used to measure static balance, and dynamic balance was measured using Y-balance. Agility was measured using a side step and a 20m dash. In the measurement of the joint position senses, with right ankle inversion 15^o, left & right ankle dorsi flexion 10^o, and left ankle plantar flexion and trunk flexion 15^o, interaction effects were found (p<.01, p<.05). Plantar flexion of the right ankle had the interaction effect (p<.01). In the standing on one foot test to measure static and dynamic balance, the interaction effect was observed (p<.01). Right anterior, right posteromedial, left posteromedial, right composite score, and left composite score had the interaction effect (p<.01, p<.05). Right posteromedial and left posteromedial showed the interaction effect (p<.01, p<.05). The side-step test to measure agility also observed the interaction effect (p<.01). 20M dash also showed the interaction effect (p<.01). This study found that the proprioceptive training program affected improvements in volleyball players' ankle and trunk joint position senses, balance, and agility.

Effects of a Novel Proprioceptive Rehabilitation Device on Shoulder Joint Position Sense, Pain and Function.

Background and Objectives: Shoulder disorders are associated with pain, restricted range of motion and muscular strength, moderate disability and diminished proprioception. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of an innovative technology-supported and a classical therapist-based proprioceptive training program in addition to conventional physiotherapy, on joint position sense (JPS), pain and function, in individuals with different musculoskeletal shoulder disorders, such as rotator cuff tear, subacromial impingement syndrome and superior labrum anterior and posterior tear. The innovative element of the proprioceptive training programme consists of the use of the Kinesimeter, a device created for both training and assessing shoulder JPS. Materials and Methods: The shoulder JPS test and the DASH outcome questionnaire were applied to fifty-five individuals (28 females, 27 males, mean age 56.31 ± 6.75), divided into three groups: 17 in the conventional physiotherapy group (control group); 19 in the conventional physiotherapy + classical proprioceptive training program group (CPT group); and 19 in the conventional physiotherapy + innovative proprioceptive training program group (KPT group). Assessments were performed before and after a four-week rehabilitation program, with five physiotherapy sessions per week. Results: When baseline and post-intervention results were compared, the value of the shoulder JPS and DASH outcome questionnaire improved significantly for the KPT and CPT groups (all p < 0.001). Both KPT and CPT groups showed statistically significant improvements in JPS, pain and function, compared to the control group which received no proprioceptive training (all p < 0.05). However, the KPT group showed no significant benefits compared to the CPT group. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that using the Kinesimeter device as a novel, innovative proprioceptive training tool has similar effects as the classical proprioceptive training programs among individuals with different non-operated musculoskeletal shoulder disorders such as: rotator cuff tear, subacromial impingement syndrome, and superior labrum anterior and posterior tear.

Effect of Proprioceptive Training on Kinesiophobia and Balance in Geriatric Population

Background: The ageing process reduces sensory and motor capabilities such as balance &amp; also increases the fear of movement, resulting in a high number of falls among the elderly. Some therapeutic interventions can directly interrupt this process and improves balance and kinesiophobia. This study examines the effect of proprioceptive training on both. Objective: To determine the effect of proprioceptive training on kinesiophobia and balance in geriatric population. Methodology: A random sample consisting of 17 community dwelling elderly participants were recruited from an old age home in Indore. The inclusion criteria were people aged 60 and above, with a history of fall. All the participants were trained under a 6 week proprioception training program using Swiss ball . The proprioceptive exercises were progressed according to the participant’s response. Participants were evaluated pre and post intervention for kinesiophobia using Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia and for Balance using Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Result: Pre and post intervention comparison of TAMPA shows an average improvement of 18 with t value 33.613, p &lt;0.05, which shows a significant decrease in kinesiophobia after the treatment. Pre and post intervention comparison of BBS shows an average improvement of 14.941 with t value 28.465, p &lt;0.05, which shows a significant improvement in balance after the treatment. Conclusion: The study provides evidence for the efficacy of proprioception training on Kinesiophobia and Balance in geriatric population. KEY WORDS: Kinesiophobia, Balance, Proprioception Training, Geriatric Population.

Clinical effects of proprioceptive thumb exercise for individuals with carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial

Study DesignRandomized Control Trial. IntroductionThumb CMC joint OA is a common diagnosis. Currently there is no evidence available to under if proprioceptive neuromuscular training is an effective intervention for this population. Purpose of the studyTo establish the effectiveness of a proprioceptive training program as a complementary therapy for patients with thumb CMC joint OA. MethodsStandard conservative thumb CMC joint OA treatments were received by both the control (n = 26) and experimental groups (n = 26) for a period of 12 weeks. The experimental group received a proprioceptive training program during the same intervention period. Outcome measures included severity of pain with activity according to the numerical rating scale (NRS), QuickDASH, Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), and proprioception via joint position sense (JPS). ResultsFifty-two females participated in the study. Both the experimental and control group made both clinically and statistically significant changes in the mean VAS and COPM scores over time. Only the experimental group achieved a statistically and clinically significant change in JPS error score over time. DiscussionExperimental group achieved a statistically significant change in JPS over time in concordance with previous investigations. Changes in pain scores differed from prior investigations and the between-group comparison was not statistically significant. Changes in the Quick DASH was similar to previous findings. ConclusionProprioceptive training in addition to a traditional rehabilitation program decreased error scores on the joint position sense test.

The Effect of Augmented Reality-Based Proprioceptive Training Program on Balance, Positioning Sensation and Flexibility in Healthy Young Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

This study investigates whether Augmented Reality (AR)-based interventions can be as effective as physical therapists (PT) regarding balance, positioning sensation, and flexibility. A sample of 39 regular people who voluntarily participated in this study were randomly distributed into two groups. Then AR was applied in the experimental group and PT was applied in the control group. Variables were measured by Tetrax(static balance), Y-balance test (dynamic balance), CSMI (proprioception), and sit and reach test (flexibility). All measurements were analyzed using paired t-test and independent t-test. The exercise program of this study improved the stability index (ST) of the static balance in both groups after the intervention, and there was a significant difference (p < 0.05) at normal eye close (NC) and Pillow with eye close (PC) positions. Moreover, regarding the case of dynamic balance, there were significant differences in AR and PT groups to reach in all directions (p < 0.05). In the case of positioning sensation, there was no significant difference in both groups (p > 0.05), and there was a significant difference in flexibility (p < 0.05). When comparing the two groups, there was no significant difference in all categories (p > 0.05). As a result, AR can be considered an effective form of therapy and can be selected according to individual conditions.

The effect of proprioceptive training on technical soccer skills in female soccer

Development of perceptual-cognitive motor skills is a crucial factor influencing soccer training and competition. The aim of the study was to examine the effects of neuromuscular coordination, proprioceptive and balance exercises on physiological attributes and technical skills in female soccer. Female soccer players competing in Greek A Division (N = 48) were assigned to intervention (N1 = 24) and control groups (N2 = 24). The Proprioceptive Training Intervention Program (PTIP) lasted approximately 20 min and was implemented five times per week for 16 weeks. It was hypothesized that the PTIP in addition to a regular training programme would significantly affect female soccer player perceptual-cognitive-motor capability as it was estimated with physiological attributes ([Formula: see text]O2max and agility) and motor performance soccer technical skills (juggling, heading, shooting, passing, and dribbling). All performance variables were measured prior and after the 16-weeks PTIP. Groups by Measures (2 × 2) ANOVAs with repeated measures on the second factor revealed that the intervention group decreased percent body fat and improved [Formula: see text]O2max and all technical skills in comparison to the control group after the PTIP ( p &lt; 0.05). The findings demonstrate the beneficial role of a proprioceptive training programme on both physiological attributes and technical skills in female soccer. Practical implications include the application of the intervention programme for monitoring and developing soccer players while also the use of the assessment tests to evaluate players.

Analysis of the Existing Treatment Methods for Ballet Dancers with Ankle Joints Injuries. Literature Review

In a study by American scientists, it was noted that most of the injuries of ballet dancers occur on the lower limbs, as they are subjected to increased loads. Ankle joints injury with ligament injuries is the most frequent and complication-prone type of injury. Insufficient attention is paid to the accidents prevention and replenishment of the sensorimotor deficit in the process of recovering from this injury. According to a focused literature review by Mackenzie M.H. et al. on the epidemiology of acute sprain of the ankle ligaments, chronic instability of the ankle joint develops in 40% of patients who have experienced such an injury for the first time, characterized by repeated sprains and sensations of instability of the ankle joint. Aim. To analyze the process of rehabilitation of ballet dancers with the ankle joint injury, identify the shortcomings of rehabilitation programs, to study the effect of proprioceptive training programs in reducing the incidence of repetitive ankle sprains in athletes and ballet dancers with a history of ankle injuries. Conclusion. Suspension systems exercises can provide training not only for individual muscle groups, but also for proprioceptive sensitivity training, correction of postural disorders due to trauma, and most importantly, sensorimotor training under controlled conditions, which reduces the risk of possible re-traumatization.

The Effects of Proprioceptive Training on Balance, Strength, Agility and Dribbling in Adolescent Male Soccer Players.

The aim of the study was to determine the effects of proprioceptive training (PT) on balance, strength, agility and dribbling in adolescent soccer players. In this research, we included an experimental (n = 48) and a control (n = 48) group (CG) with 14 years old players. The experimental group (EG) participated in an 8 week PT program, with four 30 min sessions per week. The experimental program included 12 bosu ball exercises to improve balance, stability and strength which were grouped into two subprograms: the first not using the soccer ball, the second subprogram using the soccer ball. The subprograms were implemented alternately during 16 proprioceptive training sessions, on two types of firm and foam surfaces. Pre- and post-tests included the static balance [Balance Error Scoring System (BESS)], vertical, horizontal, and lateral jumping, and the completion of agility (“arrowhead”) and dribbling (“short dribbling”) tests. Regarding the total BESS score, the CG has demonstrated progress between the pre- and the post-test, with 0.780 ± 0.895, fewer errors, while the EG had 5.828 ± 1.017 fewer errors. The difference between the two groups was of 5.148 fewer errors for the EG who had practiced the proposed program of proprioceptive training. The highest difference registered between the pre- and the post-test was at the test “single-leg forward jump with the right leg”, with a result of 1.083 ± 0.459 cm for the CG and of 3.916 ± 0. 761 cm for the EG. Through the analysis of average differences between the pre- and the post-tests, we observe that, regarding the “Agility right side test”, the EG has progressed with 0.382 s in comparison with the CG; regarding the “Agility left side test”, the EG has progressed with 0.233 s compared to the CG; regarding the “Agility right and left side test”, the EG has progressed with 0.196 s compared to the CG; in the “Short dribbling test”, the EG has progressed with 0.174 s compared to the CG. The highest progress was made at the “Agility right side test”, of 0.402 s for the EG, while the CG registered 0.120 s. Most of the results in all tests for both experimental groups show an effect size ranging from small to medium. The progress made by the experimental group in all tests was statistically significant, while in the control group the progress was mostly statistically insignificant for p < 0.05. The results suggest that a PT program performed at about 14 years of age could be successfully implemented in the training regime of soccer players to improve components of fitness along with dribbling skills. The results of the study revealed that sports training on the foam surfaces determined a superior progress of the development of proprioception compared to the increased training on the firm surfaces.

Effect of a proprioceptive balance board training program on functional and neuromotor performance in volleyball players predisposed to musculoskeletal injuries

Effect of a proprioceptive balance board training program on functional and neuromotor performance in volleyball players predisposed to musculoskeletal injuries

The Effect of Proprioceptive Training upon the Upper Limbs Strength on Posttraumatic Shoulder Recovery in Weightlifter Women

This paper aims to examine the effects of proprioceptive training upon upper limbs force in the case of female weightlifters. 10 weightlifters from CSS N. Rotaru in Constanța, Romania, took part in an experiment specially designed for this purpose. The experimental group was assigned a proprioceptive training programme of 15 minutes two times per week, for a period of 20 weeks. The tests administered for the assessment of their upper limbs force were push-ups, push-ups on the Bosu ball, and dynamometry testing. Data analysis shows that no significant differences between the experimental group and the control group are visible at the initial test (p&gt; 0.05). In the final evaluation, however, the experimental group obtained better scores than the control group in all tests. These findings indicate that the proprioceptive programme proposed has lead to the enhancement of female weightlifters’ muscular force. In conclusion, the programme is an efficient training tool that can be integrated with the sportswomen’s exercise routine.

Injury prevention of hamstring injuries through exercise interventions

Hamstring injuries are the most prevalent time-loss injuries in sport, mainly in those modalities characterized by high-intensity and short-term actions, especially accelerations and decelerations during high-speed running. Expanding the knowledge about this type of injury and its preventive programs could be a key strategy to reduce the hamstring injury incidence. Thus, this review aimed to study the effectiveness of different preventive programs based on exercise interventions on reducing the hamstring injury incidence in athletes. An umbrella review was conducted through of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Physiotherapy Evidence Database databases. The methodological quality of the included systematic reviews was assessed through the Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews 2 and the quality of the evidence was evaluated using the modified Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation principles. Eight systematic reviews and meta-analysis (40 primary studies) met the inclusion criteria, which included interventions based on eccentric strength, Nordic hamstring, proprioceptive training, stretching, FIFA11 and combined programs. From the qualitative synthesizes, three studies showed that eccentric-based training programs were effective; seventeen studies reported that Nordic hamstring-based programs were effective; three studies observed that stability training-based interventions were effective; two studies indicated that flexibility were effective; three studies claimed that FIFA11+based programs were effective; and two studies reported that combined programs were effective. Exercise is a key strategy to reduce the hamstring injury incidence, being programs based on eccentric strength mainly by means of Nordic hamstring exercise, and on stability training, those programs which reported greater effectiveness.

Effect of a Combined Strengthening and Proprioceptive Training Program on Balance and Gait of Female Children With Intellectual Disability

Objective: This study aims to assess the effect of combined strengthening and proprioceptive exercises on balance and gait of female children with intellectual disability Methods: Participants were 24 elementary school girls aged 9-13 years in Mashhad, Iran who were selected using a convenience sampling method and divided to two groups of exercise and control. The exercise group performed selective exercises for 8 weeks, while the control group performed their daily activities. In the pre-test stage, the static balance, dynamic balance, lower limb strength, and gait were measured. After eight weeks, all variables were measured again. Results: Eight weeks of strengthening and proprioceptive exercises had a significant effect on improvement of static balance, dynamic balance, lower limb strength, and gait of girls with intellectual disability (P=0.001). Conclusion: Eight weeks of strengthening and proprioceptive exercises can be used to improve the physical fitness factors of girls with intellectual disability.

Effects of variable frequencies of kinesthesia, balance and agility exercise program in adults with knee osteoarthritis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundKnee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common painful and disabling condition that affects older individuals. Proprioceptive training programs in the form of kinesthesia, balance and agility (KBA) exercises have been reported to be beneficial for individuals with knee OA. However, the most optimal training dosage of KBA exercises is still unclear. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of different frequencies of KBA training (i.e., twice-weekly or thrice-weekly) in adults with knee OA.MethodsA single (assessor) blind, three-arm parallel, multi-center randomized controlled trial will be conducted. One hundred twenty adults with knee OA will be recruited from four tertiary hospitals in Northwestern Nigeria and randomly assigned into one of three intervention groups; twice-weekly KBA (n = 40), thrice-weekly KBA (n = 40), and conventional physiotherapy (n = 40) in the ratio of 1:1:1. Participants in the conventional physiotherapy group will receive two sessions of brief patient education, and sixteen sessions of ultrasound therapy, and stretching and strengthening exercises for 8 weeks. Participants in the two different KBA groups will receive KBA training according to the designed sessions for 8 weeks in addition to the conventional physiotherapy program. All groups will be assessed pre-intervention, immediately post-intervention and at 3 months, 4 months, and 6 months post-randomization. The primary outcome will be physical function (Ibadan Knee and Hip Osteoarthritis Outcome Measure) whereas the secondary outcomes will be pain intensity (Visual Analogue Scale for pain), knee stability (Knee Outcome Survey-Activities of Daily Living Scale), proprioception (electronic goniometer), and quality of life (Osteoarthritis Knee and Hip Quality of Life Questionnaire).DiscussionThe findings of this study may provide evidence on the effectiveness of KBA exercise training and the ideal number of sessions needed to achieve the highest effectiveness in adults with knee OA.Trial registration Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR201810713260138). Registered on 28 November 2017.