Strength training Vs moderate training in knee Osteoarthritis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A pilot study comparing strength training, moderate intensity exercise training and a control group receiving standard physiotherapy exercises on pain, strength, function and quality of life in patients with early osteoarthritis of the knee.
IRAS ID
139307
Contact name
Tim Sharp
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cwm Taf University Health Board
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 27 days
Research summary
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common musculoskeletal disorder affecting up to 6% of the population (Felson and Zhang 1998) with no known cure. OA is often identified and graded through radiology studies from grade 1–4 using the Kellgren-Lawrence classification (1957). Quadriceps weakness and pain are probably the most established correlation to functional limitation in knee OA (Lankhurst et al 1985, Wessel 1996, Baker and McAlindon 2000). Treatments range from pharmacology to joint replacement. Strengthening exercises to increase lower limb strength are core to all treatment approaches and recommended by most national clinical guidelines (Fransen and McConnell 2008) irrespective of age, comorbidity, pain or disability (NICE 2008). However, recommended levels of physical activity are rarely achieved (Farr et al 2008).
Studies show that strength training has positive benefits in OA, influencing strength, pain, and function (Treuth et al 1994, Mondoa 2004, Lange et al 2008, Bennell and Hinman 2011). However many studies use different inclusion/exclusion criteria and exercise interventions (Fransen and McConnell 2008) making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions on the most appropriate form of exercise. Most chose a multifaceted approach combining strength training, alongside aerobic training (Fransen and McConnell 2008). Jan et al (2008) and Thorstensson et al (2005) tested high intensity strength training alone, although subjects had fairly advanced OA which may affect results. Few studies have used strength training, as advised by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) (Pollock et al 1998) as an intervention in early-mild OA.
The inconclusive evidence raises questions regarding the most appropriate exercise intervention or intensity for OA knee (Bennell and Hinman 2011). The aim of this study is to compare pain, strength and function following a 6 week course of either strength training or moderate intensity training compared to standard physiotherapy practice with early OA.
REC name
Wales REC 3
REC reference
14/WA/1146
Date of REC Opinion
10 Oct 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion