Effects of hydrotherapy and land-based exercise on mobility and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a randomized control trial

Abstract

[Purpose] To determine the effects of hydrotherapy and land-based exercises on functional mobility and quality of life among patients with knee osteoarthritis. [Participants and Methods] We conducted a random- ized controlled trial with knee osteoarthritis patients randomly allocated into land-based (n=17) and hydrotherapy groups (n=17). The Time-Up and Go (TUG), Five Times Sit-to-Stand (5STS), Stair Climbing Test (SCT), and Qual- ity of Life by questionnaires including the Modified Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index questionnaire Thai version (Thai WOMAC) were assessed at baseline and 6 weeks. The World Health Or- ganization Quality of Life BREF Thai version (WHOQOL-BREF-THAI) questionnaire were assessed at baseline and six weeks and 6 months. [Results] There was no significant difference in outcomes between the groups after 6-weeks and 6-months of follow-up. After 6 weeks, Thai WOMAC score improved in both groups. Only 5STS was improved in the land-based group, while the hydrotherapy group showed significant TUG, 5STS, and SCT improve- ment. Furthermore, only hydrotherapy showed significant improvement in WHOQOL-BREF-THAI scores in the mental, social, quality of health, and total domains after six months. [Conclusion] Both exercises equally improved functional mobility and quality of life. Hydrotherapy and land-based exercise could improve functional mobility and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis.