Randomized Study of Core Stabilization Exercises Added to Knee Exercises in Women with Gonarthrosis

What this Trial Is About

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease that causes cartilage deterioration, joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and muscle weakness, mainly affecting weight-bearing joints. This condition often leads to disability and reduced daily function. Researchers are investigating whether adding core stabilization exercises to routine knee muscle exercises can improve symptoms and functional ability in women with knee osteoarthritis. The study compares two groups of female participants with knee OA. One group receives 10 days of conventional physiotherapy including hot packs, TENS, and ultrasound, followed by 6 weeks of routine knee exercises plus 6 weeks of core stabilization exercises performed three times a week. The other group receives the same physiotherapy and knee exercises without the core stabilization. The core exercises focus on strengthening deep abdominal and trunk muscles through specific movements like bridges, planks, and modified sit-ups. Participants will be assessed at the start and after 6 weeks using tests such as sit-ups, modified push-ups, and core endurance measures to evaluate muscle strength and function. Additional assessments include the 30-second sit-to-stand test, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) for symptoms, and a single-leg balance test. The study monitors changes in clinical symptoms and functional capacity to understand the effects of the exercise programs.

Effects of Core Stabilization Exercises in Female Patients With Gonarthrosis