Home-Based Strategies for Knee Osteoarthritis

Home-Based Strategies for Knee Osteoarthritis: Comparative Effectiveness of Exercise and Topical Therapy in a Randomized Controlled Trial

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common chronic joint condition leading to pain, functional limitations, and reduced quality of life. This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of a structured home-based exercise program versus topical diclofenac sodium therapy in improving pain, functional outcomes, and health-related quality of life among adults with early-stage KOA. The results are intended to provide evidence on the optimal components of home-based conservative management strategies.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 40-70 years
• Diagnosed with Kellgren-Lawrence grade I-II knee osteoarthritis
• Ability to provide written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Advanced KOA (Kellgren-Lawrence grade IV) requiring arthroplasty
• Prior knee surgery within the past year
• Intra-articular injections within the last 3 months
• Neurological, rheumatological, or systemic conditions affecting mobility
• Inability to comply with study procedures