Effect of Neuromuscular Exercises on Pain, Quadriceps Strength and Physical Function among Patients with Unilateral Knee Osteoarthritis. -a Single Group Reversal Design

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease of the synovial joint. The structural damage results in collapse of the cartilage and subchondral bone leading to symptoms of pain, stiffness and dysfunction. Physiotherapy interventions not only reduce the symptoms but also slows down the disease progression. Neuromuscular Exercise is typically performed in functional weight bearing position and emphasizes the quality of movement and physical function. The aim was to find out the Effect of Neuromuscular Exercises on Pain, Quadriceps strength and Physical function among patients with Osteoarthritis. Methods: 27 patients with OA were selected and underwent Neuromuscular Exercise along with Conventional Quadriceps strengthening exercises, primary outcomes of Quadriceps strength was measured using Handheld dynamometer and Physical function was measured using WOMAC Scale. Results: The statistical analysis was made using ANOVA method, the patients who received Neuromuscular Exercises showed decrease in pain, improvement in Quadriceps strength and Physical Function. The Data analysis was done using ANOVA, and SPSS software v 22.0. The Statistical Analysis showed a significant improvement in Pain after the Neuromuscular Exercises. Pain and Physical function (WOMAC: p<0.05; p = 0.01) and Quadriceps strength (Dynamometer: p<0.05; p = 0.03). Conclusion: The study concluded that Neuromuscular exercises along with conventional therapy was effective in reducing Pain and improving Quadriceps strength and Physical function among patients with Knee Osteoarthritis.