Effects of Open and Closed Kinetic Chain Exercise on Functional Outcomes and Lower Limb Biomechanics in Mild Knee Osteoarthritis Patients

Background: Clinical recommendations suggest exercises as the core treatment for knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients. However, the biomechanical modification following exercise therapy and its influence on pain remains unclear. The purpose of the study to compare the effectiveness of two different exercise programs, open kinetic chain (CKC) and closed kinetic chain (CKC) strengthening exercises, on pain and lower limb biomechanics for people more than 50 years old with painful mild grade knee OA. Method: 66 individuals with mild knee OA, with knee pain in the previous one week, aged 50 years and above, and who have body mass index (BMI) between 18.9kg/m2 - 29.9 kg/m2 in Kelantan, Malaysia will be recruited in this study. Participants will be randomly allocated into three different groups, either OKC, CKC, or control groups. Participants in OKC and CKC groups will perform the exercises at their home three times per week for eight weeks. The control group will receive only the patient's clinical education about clinical manifestations, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and nursing care for knee OA and printed materials will be given. The outcome will be measured before and after the intervention. Primary outcomes are self-reported pain, disability, and quality of life scores. Secondary outcomes include lower limb biomechanics during gait and sit-to-stand, and knee isokinetic strength. Discussion: This study will compare the efficacy of two different home-based exercise intervention programs for people with mild grade knee OA. Findings will provide valuable information for creating an effective exercise program that could slow down the progression of OA.