The effect of low-load exercise on joint pain, function, and activities of daily living in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

BACKGROUND

Knee osteoarthritis has a lifetime risk of nearly one in two, with obese individuals being most susceptible. While exercise is universally recognized as a critical component for management, unsafe or ineffective exercise frequently leads to exacerbation of joint symptoms.

AIM

Evaluate the effect of a 12week lower body positive pressure (LBPP) supported low-load treadmill walking program on knee pain, joint function, and performance of daily activities in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

DESIGN

Prospective, observational, repeated measures investigation.

SETTING

Community based, multidisciplinary musculoskeletal medicine clinic.

PATIENTS

Thirty-one patients, aged 50-75, with a BMI ≥25kg/m and radiographic confirmed mild to moderate knee OA.

INTERVENTION

Twelve week LBPP treadmill walking exercise regimen.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) were used to quantify joint symptoms and patient function; isokinetic thigh muscle strength was evaluated; and a 10-point VAS was used to quantify acute knee pain while walking. Baseline and follow-up data were compared in order to examine the effect of the 12week exercise intervention.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference between baseline and follow-up data: KOOS and COPM scores both improved; thigh muscle strength increased; and acute knee pain during full weight bearing walking diminished significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

Participation in a 12week LBPP supported treadmill walking exercise regimen significantly enhanced patient function and quality of life, as well as the ability to perform activities of daily living that patient's self-identified as being important, yet difficult to perform.