Study Comparing Exercise With and Without Resting Intervals in People Aged 45-79 with Knee Osteoarthritis

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the feasibility of two different exercise programs for people aged 45 to 79 with knee osteoarthritis. This pilot randomized trial compares a usual exercise program with one that includes longer resting intervals during sessions. The study focuses on participants with early to moderate knee osteoarthritis who lead sedentary lifestyles and have the knee as their most painful joint. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. Both groups exercise three times a week for 12 weeks, performing warm-up activities, strengthening exercises for lower limb muscles, and aerobic treadmill training. One group exercises with minimal resting periods, completing sessions in about one hour, while the other group includes two long 45-minute rest periods, making sessions last about two and a half hours. Before and after the exercise programs, participants undergo assessments including gait analysis, knee MRI, muscle strength tests, and physical performance evaluations. Questionnaires are completed, and blood and synovial fluid samples are collected. The main measure is the feasibility of recruitment, with safety of the interventions monitored during the three months following treatment. Participants are expected to comply with study procedures and be available throughout the study duration.

Feasibility of Resting Intervals During Exercise Programs for Individuals With Knee Osteoarthritis