Strength Training May Reduce Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis

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Strength Training May Reduce Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is responsible for more dependency in leg-related tasks like walking and climbing stairs than any other disease in the elderly. According to previous studies, a decline in one's physical function increases the risk of disability, which lowers quality of life.

It has been shown that weakness of the quadriceps and other leg muscles may be a risk factor for knee osteoarthritis, but no controlled study has tested the benefits of knee training when the goal is to increase strength.

This study examined the effects of a home-based, high-intensity, progressive strength-training program on knee osteoarthritis symptoms. The subjects, 55 years or older, were divided into two groups. The test group completed a four-month home training program composed of squats, step-ups, isotonic exercises, and weight resistance training, while the control group was given a nutrition education program. All 38 patients who completed the trial were evaluated for pain and physical function using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) index.
The strength-training group reported a 43% reduction in pain, compared to 12% in the control group. Physical function also improved more in the strength-training group than the control group: 44% vs. 23%. Greater gains were seen in the individuals' most-affected leg. Also, knee extension strength increased 71% in the training group vs. only a 3% increase in the control group.
This trial demonstrates that a 4-month, in-home exercise program can decrease pain and increase function for patients with knee osteoarthritis. The authors speculate that the larger effect on physical function compared with other strength training studies may be due to improvements in dynamic muscle strength; they suggest further investigation into the possible effects of strength training on knee osteoarthritis.
Baker KR, Nelson ME, Felson DT, et al. The efficacy of home based progressive strength training in older adults with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial. The Journal of Rheumatology 2001: 28, pp. 1655-1664.