A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing the Effectiveness of Aquatic Therapy and Land-Based Therapy in Managing Pain and Improving Function in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

Authors: Qamara S. Alsolmi, Norah Y. A. Alsulaiman, Faye A.S. Alraffa, Thamer M. Alshammary, Abdulaziz O. Alharbi, Fahdah A. Aljamaan, Anoud O. Alanezi

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13736456

Short DOI: https://doi.org/gvh964

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Objective: This randomized controlled trial aimed to compare the effectiveness of aquatic therapy versus land-based therapy in reducing pain and improving function in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods: A total of 120 patients with knee OA were randomly assigned to either an aquatic therapy group (n = 60) or a land-based therapy group (n = 60). Both groups completed a 12-week exercise program. Outcomes were measured at baseline, post-intervention, and 6-month follow-up, including pain (VAS), function (WOMAC, KOOS), range of motion (ROM), and muscle strength.

Results: Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in pain, function, ROM, and muscle strength. However, the aquatic therapy group showed greater pain reduction (VAS reduction: 3.8 vs. 4.2, p < 0.05) and functional improvement (WOMAC: 27.2 vs. 30.2, p < 0.05). Patient satisfaction was also higher in the aquatic therapy group (85% vs. 72%, p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Aquatic therapy was slightly more effective than land-based therapy in managing pain and improving function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Aquatic therapy may be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty tolerating weight-bearing exercises.

Keywords: Knee osteoarthritis, aquatic therapy, land-based therapy, pain management, functional improvement, randomized controlled trial

Paper Id: 231153

Published On: 2024-07-08

Published In: Volume 12, Issue 4, July-August 2024

Cite This: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing the Effectiveness of Aquatic Therapy and Land-Based Therapy in Managing Pain and Improving Function in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis - Qamara S. Alsolmi, Norah Y. A. Alsulaiman, Faye A.S. Alraffa, Thamer M. Alshammary, Abdulaziz O. Alharbi, Fahdah A. Aljamaan, Anoud O. Alanezi - IJIRMPS Volume 12, Issue 4, July-August 2024. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13736456

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