Effect of a selected core stabilization training program on pain and function of the females with knee osteoarthritis

Introduction: Due to its weight bearing status, knee joint sustains direct injuries and this is the main reason that osteoarthritis (OA) is more prevalent in this joint causing affected patients to experience such signs and symptoms as stiffness, pain, and decreased range of motion. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a selected core stabilization exercise program on pain and function in female patients with knee osteoarthritis.Materials and Methods: 22 female non-athletes with knee osteoarthritis (mean age, 60.12 ± 9.38 years; mean height, 155.45 ± 7.84 cm; mean weight, 71.46 ± 13.87 Kg) were equally randomly assigned to one of two groups: experimental  or control groups. Pain and function were measured pre- and post- intervention using VAS and WOMAC questionnaires respectively. The experimental group underwent core stabilization training three sessions a week for 8 weeks, each session lasting 30 minutes. Patients in the control group continued their normal daily living activities. Data were statistically analyzed via ANOVA.Results: Results showed significant  mean differences of VAS scores comparing  pre- (4.81 ± 2.27) and post- (3.18 ± 1.72) intervention conditions in the experimental group, while mean differences between pre- (5.09 ± 2.21) and post- (6.81 ± 2.04) tests was not significant in control group (P > 0/05).The mean differences of WOMAC scores regarding pre- (41.72 ± 17.89) and post- (28.72 ± 17.35) intervention evaluations was significant in experimental group, but there was no significant mean differences between pre- (44.45 ± 14.82) and post- (52.09 ± 12.03) tests in control group (P > 0/05).Conclusion: Based on the results of the present study we can conclude that the core stabilization exercise may decrease pain and improve function in females with OA. The proper function of core muscles has important role in keeping the pelvis in neutral position, which leads to the normal position of the femur and thus, good position of the knee joint and reduction of the pressures on the articular cartilage. We recommend the use of core stabilization training as an effective method in treatment of knee osteoarthritis.Keywords: Osteoarthritis, Core stabilization training, Exercise therapy