Frequency of physical therapy in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial

Authors : Sadiye MURAT, Yasemin YUMUŞAKHUYLU, Zeliha GENÇOĞLU, Afitap İÇAĞASIOĞLU, Nur KESİKTAŞ, Turgay Altınbilek

Pages : 781-786

Doi:10.18621/eurj.420854

View : 16 | Download : 11

Publication Date : 2019-09-04

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Objectives: This study is conducted to compare the three different frequency of the physical therapy application for knee osteoarthritis in female patients. Methods: Consecutive 89 female patients with knee osteoarthritis were randomized into three groups of physical therapy as twice-daily, once-a-day and alternate day, by computerized random number generator. We used Visual Analog Scale insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(VAS);; to determine pain level, Western Ontario McMaster Osteoarthritis Index insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(WOMAC);; to determine osteoarthritis insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(OA); severity, 10-meter walking test insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(WD);; to determine walking speed and Short Form insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(SF-36); questionnaire; to determine the quality of life. All groups received a total of 10 physical therapy sessions including hot pack, therapeutic ultrasound insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(US); and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(TENS);. We evaluated subjects at the beginning, at the end of treatment and at the third month control at post-treatment period. Results: Improvement was observed in all groups after treatment insert ignore into journalissuearticles values( p < 0.05);. While there was no significant difference in once-a-day treatment group at 3 rd month control insert ignore into journalissuearticles values( p > 0.05);, alternate day group showed a significant improvement insert ignore into journalissuearticles values( p < 0.05);. Conclusions: In the treatment of knee osteoarthritis, usually once-a-day physical therapy approach is preferred in daily practice. Alternatively twice a day or alternate day therapies can be applicable. 
Keywords : Knee osteoartritis, physical theraphy agents, frequency of treatment