Effects of Core Stabilization Exercises in Female Patients With Gonarthrosis

Randomized Controlled Study of the Effects of Core Stabilization Exercises in Addition to Knee Exercises in Female Patients With Gonarthrosis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a non-inflammatory degenerative disease characterized by progressive deterioration of cartilage tissue, synovial membrane, and joint capsule, primarily affecting weight-bearing joints. Individuals with knee osteoarthritis exhibit weakness in the trunk and periarticular muscles. This loss of strength in the trunk and periarticular muscles increases the load on the joint, contributing to the development and progression of the disease. This study aimed to investigate the effects of core stabilization, applied in addition to knee muscle exercise programs, on clinical symptoms and functional capacity in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis is the most common chronic joint disease and a leading cause of disability worldwide. It represents a significant public health and cost problem due to reduced work productivity and early retirement. OA is a non-inflammatory degenerative disease characterized by progressive deterioration of cartilage tissue, synovial membrane, and joint capsule, particularly in weight-bearing joints, along with a series of biochemical and morphological changes. While its etiology is not fully understood, it is considered a multifactorial disease involving a combination of systemic and regional factors. Increased bone density, joint laxity, and excessive mechanical loading are some of these factors. Symptoms of knee osteoarthritis include pain, joint stiffness, swelling, loss of function, and muscle weakness. Pain and joint stiffness in individuals negatively affect daily living activities such as climbing stairs, walking, and running, leading to decreased functionality. Current literature emphasizes that strong proximal trunk stabilization is needed for safe and effective completion of movements in the distal segments, and that weakness in this region is directly related to lower extremity pain. This study aimed to investigate the effects of core stabilization, applied in addition to an exercise program for the knee muscles, on clinical symptoms and functional capacity in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Kellgren-Lawrence 2-3 knee osteoarthritis
• Female patient aged 40-65
• Volunteer

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having received physical therapy within the last month
• Presence of neurological, cardiac, and respiratory problems
• Less than 90 degrees of flexion in the knee and hip joints
• Presence of any pathology in the lower extremity that may affect balance and function
• History of lower extremity surgery
• Severe visual, hearing, and speech impairment
• Illiteracy in Turkish
• Body mass index of 30 or higher