Date Approved

1999

Graduate Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Physical Therapy (M.S.)

Degree Program

Physical Therapy

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine if the strength gained from the performance of a six week isometric training program for the quadriceps femoris would result in improvements in the disability level, strength, pain, stiffness, and functional abilities of patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Twelve subjects with symptomatic knee OA were randomly assigned to either control or experimental groups, with the experimental group completing a six week isometric program. Pre- and post-test measures included strength assessment on the Biodex and completion of the WOMAC Osteoarthritis Index. Results indicate that experimental subjects had significant improvements in strength and disability level, and improvements in pain level and functional abilities that approached statistical significance. This study validates the use of isometric exercise in the rehabilitation of individuals with knee OA, and highlights the need for future studies with a larger number of subjects to determine the impact isometrics have on patients’ function.

Comments

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