Effectiveness of an individualized comprehensive rehabilitation program in women with chronic knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the short- and medium-term effects of an 8-week individualized comprehensive rehabilitation program in women with chronic knee osteoarthritis as regards functionality, physical performance, and perceived health status. Methods: Women with chronic knee osteoarthritis were randomly assigned to the aquatic training group or to the individualized comprehensive rehabilitation (ICR) group. The main outcomes were functionality assessed with the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, physical performance assessed with the Timed Up and Go test and the Stair Climbing Test, and perceived health status evaluated with the European Quality of Life- 5 Dimensions questionnaire. Participants were assessed after the treatment and at 3-month follow-up. Results: Forty participants were included in the study. After the treatment, there were no significant between- group differences. At 3-month follow-up, there were significant between-group differences in functionality (stiffness P = 0.049, function P = 0.005, and total subscores P = 0.048) and physical performance (Timed Up and Go P = 0.031 and Stair Climbing Test P = 0.046) in favor of the ICR group. Conclusion: An 8-week ICR program improved functionality, physical performance, and perceived health status compared with an aquatic training program in women with chronic knee osteoarthritis.