Effect of Resistance Training of Quadriceps Muscle in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Control Trial

Objective: To determine the effects of resistance training in quadriceps muscle in patients with knee osteoarthritis attending tertiary care hospital, Karachi. Materials and methods: This was a single blinded randomized control trial study with probability simple random sampling technique. Sampling was done in physiotherapy department of Al-Khidmat Hospital Korangi, Karachi from May to December 2018. The required sample size was found to be 74 (37 in experimental group and 37 in control group). Inclusion criteria for patients was age >45 years, moderate degree pain, ability to walk 20 to 30 meters, subject without any walking aid and chronic osteoarthritis of knee diagnosed on radiograph. Variables were observed using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) index, and a strength gauge device, respectively. All observations were taken at baseline and after a week. SPSS version 23.0 was used for data analysis. Results: A total of 74 patients were recruited in this study. There were two groups Experimental and Control 37 patients were taken in each group. Strengthening of quadriceps exercises was assessed at baseline 9.13 ± 1.39 and after a week 11.36 ± 1.22 with statistically significant P-value of 0.041 in experimental group. In control group there was no statistical (difference observed at baseline and after a week routine checkup. Conclusion: Quadriceps strengthening exercises have a positive impact found in patients with knee OA. Experimental group patients gradually showed improvement after exercises of one week with good physical health status.