INTRODUCTION

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of pain and disability worldwide. While exercise is crucial for managing OA, the effectiveness of a well-structured and efficient home-based, self-management exercise programme remains unclear. Therefore, this two-phase randomised controlled trial will evaluate the effectiveness of a structured home-based exercise programme (HEP) and concentric-based stair training programme versus eccentric-based stair training programme (CSTP vs ESTP) to develop an evidence-based approach for knee OA.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study will be a participant and assessor-blinded, randomised controlled trial that will enrol 247 knee OA participants. In Phase I, there will be a 1:1 split of participants into: an HEP and a control group P for 8 weeks. In Phase II, eligible participants from Phase I will be a 1:1:1 split into: a CSTP, an ESTP and a control group P for another 8 weeks. The number of exercise programmes will last for 16 weeks, including a 24-week follow-up. The primary outcomes of pain intensity, pressure pain threshold and functional ability will be measured using a numeric pain rating scale, pressure algometer and Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). The secondary outcomes of muscle strength, range of motion, aerobic capacity and quality of life will be measured using a modified sphygmomanometer, universal goniometer, 6-minute walk test and 36-item short-form survey. All outcomes will be measured at pretest (T), post-test (T and T) and follow-up (T).

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

All activities and exercise programmes will follow the Helsinki Declaration of 2020. The findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminated at international conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

CTRI/2025/03/081574.