Effectiveness of Plantar Flexor and Intrinsic Foot Muscle Exercises in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37506/kfp5c526Keywords:
Exercise therapy, foot intrinsic, osteoarthritis, plantar flexors.Abstract
Background: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common degenerative joint disorder, particularly in older adults, often worsened by obesity, malalignment, and inactivity. Conservative management through muscle strengthening and biomechanical correction helps delay disability.
Objectives: This study investigated whether adding foot and ankle exercises improves symptoms in KOA patients beyond conventional proximal muscle training.
Methods: Eighty participants were randomized into two groups. Group A received exercises for foot intrinsic and plantar flexors along with quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip abductors. Group B performed only proximal muscle exercises. KOOS scores were recorded at baseline and after six weeks.
Results: Both groups improved significantly (p < 0.05), but Group A showed greater gains across all KOOS subscales (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Adding foot and ankle exercises enhances the effectiveness of KOA rehabilitation, supporting a kinetic-chain-based approach.
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