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Exercise protocol associated with improved physical function in patients with hip, knee OA
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LAS VEGAS — Implementation of an exercise protocol was linked with improved physical function in patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis, according to results presented here.
“It is possible to implement the evidence-based recommendation of exercise and education for patients with knee and hip [osteoarthritis] OA in clinical practice and it is feasible too,” Søren T. Skou, PhD, said in his presentation at the Osteoarthritis Research Society International World Congress.
In the Good Life with Osteoarthritis in Denmark Initiative, Skou noted physical therapists underwent a 2-day course on how to apply exercise education according to guidelines and clinical practice. Physical therapists provided 8 weeks of education and supervised neuromuscular exercise to patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis (OA). At 3 months and 12 months, Skou and colleagues evaluated patients through patient reports, physical therapist reports, 30-second chair stand and 40-minute walk tests.
Results showed patients with hip OA and knee OA had improvements from baseline to 3 months and 12 months.
“Looking at the improvement in percent, [it] is between 23% and 27% at 3 months and 28% for both knees and hips at the 12-month follow-up,” Skou said.
He noted a risk reduction for pain killers following treatment of 19% for knee patients and of 30% for hip patients, as well as improvements in functional performance and level of physical activity.
“We asked patients at baseline whether or not they had been on sick leave due to their knee or hip within the last year, then we asked the same question at 12 months, and you can see that there seems to be a risk reduction in the number of patients being on sick leave due to their joint,” Skou said. – by Casey Tingle
Reference:
Skou ST, et al. Paper #73. Presented at: Osteoarthritis Research Society International World Congress; April 27-30, 2017; Las Vegas.
Disclosure: Skou reports no relevant financial disclosures.