Neuromuscular Training Program in Patients With Knee OA (Osteoarthritis)

Comparison of the Effectiveness of Neuromuscular Training Program and Conventional Physical Therapy Program in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis.

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of neuromuscular training program and conventional physical therapy program on pain, functional status, physical performance, balance, muscle strength and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

The study was carried out in Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University Health Application Research Center in individuals with 2nd or 3rd degree KOA according to Kellgren and Lawrence Classification. The study was planned as a randomized controlled clinical trial design. The study group were recruited to the neuromuscular training program and the control group were recruited to the conventional physical therapy program 5 days a week for 3 weeks. Individuals were evaluated at the baseline and after training programs. Demographic and clinical data were first recorded in the evaluation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Having grade 2 or 3 osteoarthritis according to the Kellgren and Lawrence Classification
• Having pain score of 2 or above on VAS
• Not having received physical therapy in the last 3 months
• Not having received an intra-articular corticosteroid injection in the last 6 months
• Not having used oral corticosteroids in the last month
• Being between the ages of 40-80
• Body mass index being between 19-40 kg/cm2

Exclusion Criteria:

• Systemic arthritis
• Hypertensive condition that prevents exercise
• Pregnancy, cognitive impairment, parkinson-like neurological disorders
• Having had a knee or hip joint replacement