Comparing Exercise Programs for Managing Knee Osteoarthritis

Investigating The Most Effective Exercise Modality in Knee Osteoarthritis; A RCT

The goal of this clinical trial is to assess and compare the effectiveness of three different exercise modalities-whole-body vibration exercise, progressive resistance exercise, and home-based exercise -in improving quadriceps isometric muscle strength, physical function, balance, knee pain, osteoarthritis symptoms, and overall quality of life in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.

The main questions it aims to answer are:

• How do WBV, PRE, and home-based exercise compare in improving quadriceps strength in people with knee osteoarthritis?
• Which exercise modality leads to the greatest improvements in physical function, balance, knee pain, and quality of life?

Researchers will compare the three exercise regimens to determine which is most effective for improving knee function and relieving osteoarthritis symptoms.

Participants will:

• Engage in whole-body vibration exercise, progressive resistance exercise, or home-based exercise for 3 weeks.
• Undergo assessments before and at the end of the exercise program, including tests for physical function and balance (Timed Up and Go Test, 5x Sit to Stand Test) and questionnaires to evaluate knee osteoarthritis symptoms (WOMAC), quality of life (SF-36), and self-reported knee pain (Numeric Rating Scale).

Inclusion Criteria:

1. participants between the ages of 45-70,
2. diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis according to ACR criteria (unilateral or bilateral),
3. having grade 2 or 3 tibiofemoral knee osteoarthritis according to Kellgren-Lawrence staging,
4. having knee pain due to OA for a minimum of 3 months prior to enrollment,
5. patients whose medical treatment is not expected to change during the study period.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. having or had undergone knee surgery,
2. patients unable to walk without support,
3. having musculoskeletal limitations that prevent participation in resistance exercises (contracture, fracture, etc.),
4. other neurological, cardiac, respiratory and systemic diseases that will affect physical activity,
5. currently implementing a regular exercise or physical therapy program specific to knee OA