Effectiveness of PNF Stretching (Hold-Relax) ...

Effectiveness of PNF Stretching (Hold-Relax) In Knee Osteoarthritis

Author Name : Kotteeswaran K., Sneha R.

ABSTRACT

Background: Osteoarthritis of the knee causes pain, restricted range of motion (ROM), diminished physical function, and other symptoms.Due to severe muscular weakness, stiffness, and joint pain, people with knee OA have demonstrated a reduction in their ability to use their lower limbs functionally¹.In patients with OA knees, PNF stretching is useful in reducing pain levels, stiffness, and improving functional mobility¹. Conventional exercises aim to treat pain, enhance function, mobility, and knee stabilization, encourage adaptation to certain everyday activities, reduce joint load, and avoid deformities; they may also slow disease development and improve the quality of life of the affected population⁵. Further research is required to determine whether PNF stretching can effectively reduce pain and stiffness in people with knee osteoarthritis.The PNF technique and conventional exercise are physiotherapy management that improves physical functions. Hence the need for study is to compare the PNF stretching and conventional treatment in improving physical function and reducing pain in knee osteoarthritis.

Objective: The goal of the research is to determine how PNF Stretching Technique and Conventional exercise  affect knee osteoarthritis pain and physical function.

Methods: From 100 subjects, 30 subjects were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, Study setting the samples are selected from Saveetha College of physiotherapy out-patient department, the sampling technique is a convenient sampling method; Outcomes measures are using NPRS and WOMAC. For 4 weeks, the intervention was provided. Before the intervention started, a NPRS and WOMAC baseline analysis was conducted. The individuals received an intervention for 4 weeks, after which a post-test was completed to assess the intervention's long-term effects.

Result: Statistical analysis was done for all the collected data using a student t-test. The test shows significant effects (p<0.05) in reducing pain and improving physical function.

Conclusion: According to research, PNF Stretching Exercises are superior than Conventional Exercises in terms of lowering pain and enhancing physical function in OA Knee patients.

Keywords: Osteoarthritis, NPRS, WOMAC questionnaire, PNF Stretchingexercise, and Conventionalexercise.