Central Sensitization in Knee Osteoarthritis

Effects of Balance Exercises on Central Sensitization in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis

The stimuli that activate nociceptors cause the dorsal horn of the spinal cord neurons to be sensitive to low-intensive afferent stimuli by decreasing the excitation threshold in patients with osteoarthritis. Although painful stimuli disappear, this situation causes pain to continue and a decrease in quality of life. Therefore, central sensitization should be considered and treated in patients with osteoarthritis. Although various pharmacological and electrophysiological agents are used in the treatment of central sensitization, adequate efficacy is not provided in patients with osteoarthritis. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of balance exercises on central sensitization in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being diagnosed with primary knee osteoarthritis according to American College of Rheumatology criteria,
• To be stage 2-3-4 knee osteoarthritis according to Kellgren Lawrence radiological staging,
• To be with a central sensitization score of over 40 according to the CSI,
• To be able to fill the scales and accept to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Being diagnosed with secondary osteoarthritis or inflammatory rheumatic disease,
• Having cognitive impairment,
• To have been treated with physiotherapy, with an intra articular injection or with a surgery from the knee within a maximum of six months
• Having various diseases that may adversely affect performing balance exercises,