Analysis of Physical Therapy in Knee Osteoarthritis

Abstract

1,2, 1 1,2 1Department of Rehabilitation, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common disorder of the musculoskeletal system. It is characterised by the destruction of joint cartilage and the presence of lesions in the subchondral bone, synovial membrane, joint capsule, and periarticular structures. OA damages the anatomical joint structure and impairs joint function. Aim: To analyse the effects of physical therapy procedures used during a two-week rehabilitation cycle on patients with OA. M aterial and Methods: The study involved 25 patients (19 women and 6 men aged 51 to 83 years) treated with electrotherapy, laser therapy, low-frequency alternating magnetic fields, ultrasound therapy, and kinesiotherapy. Rehabilitation outcomes were assessed with a survey questionnaire created by the authors and a VAS scale. Results: All study patients experienced pain reduction or elimination and an improvement in physical fitness after physical therapy. Conclusion: 1.Knee osteoarthritis is a clinical and social problem. 2. The physical therapy procedures used in the study considerably reduced pain in OA patients, both at rest and during movement, and resulted in improved physical fitness. 3. Seeing that a very large group of study patients with gonarthrosis declares no physical activity and avoids exercise due to pain, it is important to highlight the benefits of physical activity in OA prevention. 4. Seeing that the mean BMI in the study group usually indicated overweight or obesity, it is important to highlight the effects of a healthy lifestyle and diet in OA prevention.