Comparative Study of the Effect of Tai Chi and Isometric Exercises on the Severity of Pain and Balance in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

Background: Osteoarthritis is a chronic and debilitating disease that often occurs in elderly populations, causing pain and loss of balance. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of Tai Chi and isometric exercises on the pain and balance in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Methods: In this study, 24 male subjects with knee osteoarthritis were selected and divided into two groups of 12 persons. Visual Analog Scale was used for pain measurement and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) was applied to measure the balance. The training program included 3 sessions exercise per week, 60 minutes each (10-min warm up, 40-min specialized training, 10-min recovery and mild stretching exercises) for duration of 8 weeks. Data were analyzed through SPSS 16 and using Kolmogrov-Smirnov, t-test and independent t-test. Results: Tai Chi exercises had a significant effect on both pain severity (P=0.001) and balance (P=0.002). While, isometric exercises had a significant effect only on pain severity (P=0.004). Conclusion: It was concluded that Tai Chi exercises have a better effect on pain relief and balance improvement than isometric exercises, and it is advisable to use Tai Chi-isometric exercises to increase balance in patients with osteoarthritis.