ISSN: 2640-2734
Authors: Patel HM* and Balaganapathy M
Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, debilitating condition that significantly impairs functional health status among affected individuals. Key challenges associated with chronic knee OA include persistent pain, diminished functional capabilities, and compromised balance. These factors highlight the critical need for effective intervention strategies. Recent research suggests that sensorimotor training may play a pivotal role in addressing these issues. However, there remains a gap in the literature regarding the specific effects of sensorimotor training on pain perception, proprioception, and overall functional levels in this population. Therefore, the aim of this study was to systematically investigate the impact of sensorimotor training on pain, proprioceptive abilities, and functional performance in individuals with chronic knee OA. Methods: Total 66 patients with chronic knee OA were divided into two equal groups. The control group received a traditional exercise programme and the experimental group received sensorimotor training in addition to traditional exercises. Blind assessment was conducted at the beginning of the study and after 4 weeks of training to measure pain by NPRS, proprioception acuity by passive – active joint position reproduction method, and functional disability by TUG & KOOS scale. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 23. Data were presented as mean, standard deviation (SD) and mean difference. Within groups compare we used Paired t test and between groups compare we used Independent t test with post data comparison in SPSS. The significance level was set at (p<0.05). Result: For experimental group and control group statistical significant (p<0.05) improvements were recorded in all measured parameters. Mean difference of KOOS in control group is 5.97% and experimental group is 17.63% and in mean difference of pain in control group is 2.33 and experimental group is 3.88 which shows that SMT is very effective than traditional exercise only. According to MCID of all outcomes, pain, KOSS and TUG test is clinically significant. The sensorimotor group produced significantly better improvement than the traditional group. Conclusion: Sensorimotor training along with traditional exercises is more effective then only traditional exercises for patients with chronic knee OA. The addition of sensorimotor training to traditional strengthening and stretching exercises could provide more motor control and help neuromuscular restoration of balance and subsequently improve the functional level of chronic knee OA subjects.
Keywords: Chronic Knee Osteoarthritis; Pain; Proprioception; Functional Activities; Sensorimotor Training; KOOS; Timed up and go test
