The Effects of Physical Exercise on Pain Management in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review with Metanalysis / Os efeitos do exercício físico sobre o manejo da dor em pacientes com osteoartrose de joelho: Uma revisão sistemática com meta-análise

Abstract Objective The present study verified, through a systematic review with meta-analysis, the effects of a rehabilitation, physical training program for the treatment of pain and muscle strength in knee osteoarthritis (OA). Methods We analyzed studies published between 2008 and 2018 referenced at the Medline (National Library of Medicine) database, selecting 7 randomized controlled clinical trials about exercise programs to improve pain and muscle strength in patients with knee OA with Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PeDro) score higher than 8. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) systematization was used to prepare this review, and a meta-analysis was carried out to obtain mathematical evidence the outcomes of physical exercise on pain. Results The studies included in the analysis contained a total of 934 participants aged 40 to 73 years-old, with 34.90% males. Most of the exercise sets offered in OA treatment had a significantly positive outcome result in both criteria, but mainly for pain relief (statistically significant difference, p< 0.003). Conclusion We infer that there was an improvement of pain in all articles that performed muscle strengthening, but there is still an obstacle to the protocols used.

Resumo Objetivo O presente estudo verificou por meio de uma revisão sistemática com metanálise os efeitos de um programa de reabilitação, através de um programa de treinamento físico, para o tratamento da dor e força muscular na osteoartrose (OA) de joelho. Métodos Foram analisados os estudos publicados entre 2008 e 2018, tendo como referência a base de dados Medline (National Library of Medicine), da qual foram selecionados 7 ensaios clínicos controlados randomizados que pontuaram acima de 8 na escala Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PeDro, na sigla em inglês), sobre programas de exercícios na melhora da dor e força muscular em paciente com OA de joelho. Foi usada a sistematização Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA, na sigla em inglês) para a elaboração desta revisão e a realização de uma metanálise com o objetivo de evidenciar matematicamente os resultados do exercício físico sobre a dor. Resultados Os estudos incluídos na análise continham um total de 934 participantes com idade entre 40 a 73 anos, sendo que 34,90% desses eram do sexo masculino. A maioria dos conjuntos de exercícios oferecidos no tratamento da OA tiveram resultado significativamente positivo em ambos os quesitos, mas principalmente para o alívio da dor (estatisticamente significativo p< 0, 003). Conclusão Inferimos que houve uma melhora da dor em todos os artigos que realizaram fortalecimento muscular, porém ainda há um óbice sobre os protocolos utilizados.

Uso de bastones contralaterales en artrosis de rodilla / Contralateral canes for knee osteoarthritis

INTRODUCCIÓN La artrosis de rodilla es un problema de salud relevante dada su alta prevalencia y discapacidad asociada. Dentro de las alternativas de manejo no farmacológico se ha planteado el uso de bastones, sin embargo no existe consenso en la literatura respecto a su indicación. MÉTODOS Para responder esta pregunta utilizamos Epistemonikos, la mayor base de datos de revisiones sistemáticas en salud, la cual es mantenida mediante búsquedas en múltiples fuentes de información, incluyendo MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, entre otras. Extrajimos los datos desde las revisiones identificadas, reanalizamos los datos de los estudios primarios, realizamos un metanálisis, preparamos tablas de resumen de los resultados utilizando el método GRADE. RESULTADOS Y CONCLUSIONES Identificamos tres revisiones sistemáticas que en conjunto incluyeron cuatro estudios primarios, de los cuales, uno es ensayo aleatorizado. Concluimos que el uso de bastón contralateral en pacientes con artrosis de rodilla probablemente disminuye el dolor. Además, podría aumentar levemente la funcionalidad, pero la certeza de la evidencia es baja.

INTRODUCTION Knee osteoarthritis is a relevant health problem given its high prevalence and associated disability. Within the non-pharmacological management alternatives, the use of canes has been proposed, however, there is no consensus in the literature regarding its indication. METHODS We searched in Epistemonikos, the largest database of systematic reviews in health, which is maintained by screening multiple information sources, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, among others. We extracted data from the systematic reviews, reanalyzed data of primary studies, conducted a meta-analysis and generated a summary of findings table using the GRADE approach. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS We identified three systematic reviews including four studies overall, of which one was randomized trials. We conclude that the use of a contralateral cane in patients with knee osteoarthritis probably reduces pain. In addition, it could slightly increase function, but the certainty of the evidence is low.

Efeitos da cinesioterapia na osteoartrite de joelho em idosos: revisão sistemática / Effects of kinesiotherapy on knee osteoarthritis in elderly: a systematic review

Introdução: a osteoartrite é uma doença articular inflamatória e degenerativa que acomete principalmente os joelhos, sobretudo em idosos. Objetivo: verificar os efeitos da cinesioterapia na osteoartrite de joelho em idosos. Métodos: realizou-se uma revisão sistemática nas bases de dados SciELO, LILACS, Cochrane Library e MEDLINE, onde cruzaram-se os descritores "Osteoartrite", "Fisioterapia", "Exercício", "Terapia por exercício" e "Idoso", nas línguas portuguesa, inglesa e espanhola, considerando-se os artigos originais publicados entre 2010 e 2016. Resultados: encontraram-se 594 artigos. Inicialmente 62 artigos potencialmente relevantes foram selecionados para o estudo. Após uma análise qualitativa criteriosa, selecionaram-se 06 artigos completos que preencheram os critérios de inclusão exigidos, cujos mesmos foram analisados por meio da Escala PEDro. Conclusão: a cinesioterapia (aquecimento, alongamento dos músculos posteriores da coxa e fortalecimento dos músculos anteriores da coxa), com frequência de duas vezes por semana, em um período de seis a 12 semanas, parece ser benéfica para melhorar o desempenho muscular, funcionalidade, diminuir a dor e rigidez em idosos com osteoartrite de joelho, sem a necessidade de recursos adicionais.

Introduction: Osteoarthritis is an inflammatory and degenerative joint disease that mainly affects the knees, especially in the elderly. Objective: To verify the effects of kinesiotherapy in knee osteoarthritis in the elderly. Methods: a systematic review was carried out in the databases SciELO, LILACS, Cochrane Library and MEDLINE, where they crossed the descriptors "Osteoarthritis", "Physiotherapy", "Exercise", "Exercise therapy" and "Elderly", in Portuguese, English and Spanish. considering the original articles published between 2010 and 2016. Results: 594 articles were found. Initially 62 potentially relevant articles were selected for the study. After a careful qualitative analysis, we selected six complete articles that met the inclusion criteria required, which were analyzed using the PEDro Scale. Conclusion: kinesiotherapy (warming, stretching of the posterior thigh muscles and strengthening of the anterior thigh muscles), often twice a week, over a period of six to 12 weeks, seems to be beneficial to improve muscle performance, functionality, decrease pain and stiffness in the elderly with knee osteoarthritis, without need for additional resources.

Sensory-motor training versus resistance training among patients with knee osteoarthritis: randomized single-blind controlled trial

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis of the knee is defined as a progressive disease of the synovial joints and is characterized by failure of joint damage repair. The objective here was to compare the effectiveness of sensory-motor training versus resistance training among patients with knee osteoarthritis. DESIGN AND SETTING: Randomized, single-blinded controlled trial conducted at the outpatient service of the University of Santo Amaro. METHODS: A total of 64 patients were randomly assigned to sensory-motor training or resistance training. The evaluations were performed at baseline and 16 weeks after the intervention and included pain evaluation on a visual analogue scale, isometric quadriceps femoris force measurement using a dynamometer, Timed Up and Go test, Tinetti balance scale, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index, and the SF-36 quality-of-life questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using analysis of variance with repeated measurements and Cohen's effect size. RESULTS: Sensory-motor training may be a plausible alternative and showed a small effect on pain and a medium effect on maximal voluntary isometric contraction. Resistance training showed a small effect on balance and a medium effect on mobility. CONCLUSION: Resistance training and sensory motor training for the lower limbs among patients with knee osteoarthritis seemed to present similar effects on pain and function. However, because there was a considerable risk of type 2 error, further randomized clinical trials are still needed to provide a sound conclusion.

Reemplazo parcial de rodilla mediante el sistema robótico NAVIO: resultados clínicos postquirúrgicos evaluados mediante Knee injury Osteoartritis Outcome Score / Robotic-assisted unicompartmental knee replacement with NAVIO surgical system: outcome evaluation using the Knee Injury Osteoarthritis Outcome Score

INTRODUCCIÓN: La osteoartritis de rodilla es una de las patologías musculo esqueléticas más prevalentes en el mundo, y el tratamiento quirúrgico es hasta hoy, la única terapia definitiva. El sistema NAVIO™ es uno de los dispositivos robóticos más recientemente a disposición para realizar el reemplazo parcial de rodilla. Ofrece gran precisión en el proceso de alineamiento, remodelado óseo y balance de los tejidos blandos, sin exponer al paciente a la radiación ni a los costos de la tomografía computarizada que suele realizarse con los sistemas robóticos actuales antes del procedimiento artroplástico. OBJETIVO: Evaluar los resultados medidos por los pacientes antes y después del procedimiento artroplástico mediante NAVIO™ y la prótesis STRIDE™. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Aplicación del cuestionario Knee injury Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) en el preoperatorio y a los 12 meses del procedimiento quirúrgico de los primeros 47 pacientes operados usando NAVIO™ en Cornerstone Regional Hospital, Edinburg, Texas. RESULTADOS: Se observó una mejoría de las muestras normalizadas en todas las categorías con un p < 0.05. COMENTARIO: Estudios recientes han sugerido que en Chile la presentación de la osteoartritis se asocia a un grado de severidad menor que en el resto de los países latinoamericanos. Lo cual torna relevante la aplicación de terapias quirúrgicas más conservadoras, que ofrezcan al paciente un alivio sintomático y le permitan reestablecerse a sus actividades cotidianas causando el mínimo impacto posible. Esas ventajas fueron observadas en los pacientes sometidos a ese procedimiento quirúrgico. CONCLUSIONES: La artroplastia unicompartimental de rodilla mediante el sistema quirúrgico NAVIO™ y prótesis STRIDE™ demostró mejorar substancialmente la vida diaria y calidad de vida de los pacientes, disminuyendo el dolor y mejorando su función durante las actividades deportivas y recreacionales.

INTRODUCTION: Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal pathologies in the world and the surgical treatment is until today the only definitive therapy. NAVIO™ system is one of the most recently available robotic devices for partial knee arthroplasty. It offers great precision in the process of alignment, bone remodeling and soft tissue balancing without exposing the patient to the radiation or the costs of the CT scan usually performed before the arthroplasty with the current robotic systems. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the outcomes measured by the patients before and after the arthroplasty using NAVIO™ and the STRIDE™ prosthesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Application of the Knee Injury Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) questionnaire in the preoperative and 12 months after the surgical procedure of the first 47 patients operated using NAVIO™ at Cornerstone Regional Hospital, Edinburg, Texas. RESULTS: There was an improvement of the normalized samples in all the categories with p < 0.05. COMMENTARY: Recent studies have suggested that in Chile the presentation of osteoarthritis is associated with a lower degree of severity compared with the rest of Latin American countries. This makes relevant the application of more conservative surgical therapies, which could offer the patient symptomatic relief and allow them to reestablish their daily activities causing the minimum impact possible. These advantages were observed in patients undergoing this surgical procedure. CONCLUSIONS: Unicompartmental knee replacement using NAVIO ™ surgical system and STRIDE™ prosthesis demonstrated a substantial improvement in patient's quality of life, reducing pain and improving their function during sports and recreational activities.

Femoral quadriceps neuromuscular electrical stimulation after total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review / Estimulação elétrica neuromuscular do quadríceps após artroplastia total de joelho: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation in patients submitted to total knee arthroplasty. This was a systematic review with no language or publication status restriction. Our search was made in Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Embase and LILACS. Randomized or quasi-randomized clinical trials evaluating neuromuscular electrical stimulation after total knee arthroplasty were included. Four studies with moderate risk of bias and low statistical power were included, totalizing 376 participants. There was no statistically significant difference in knee function, pain and range of motion during 12 month follow-up. This review concluded that neuromuscular electrical stimulation was less effective than traditional rehabilitation in function, muscular strength and range of motion. However, this technique was useful for quadriceps activation during the first days after surgery.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da estimulação elétrica neuromuscular em pacientes submetidos à artroplastia total de joelho. Esta foi uma revisão sistemática sem restrição de idioma ou status de publicação. Nossa pesquisa foi realizada na biblioteca Cochrane, MEDLINE, Embase e LILACS. Foram incluídos ensaios clínicos randomizados ou quase-randomizados, avaliando a estimulação elétrica neuromuscular após a artroplastia total de joelho. Quatro estudos com risco de viés moderado e de baixo poder estatístico foram incluídos, totalizando 376 participantes. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa na função do joelho, dor e amplitude de movimento durante 12 meses de seguimento. Esta avaliação concluiu que a estimulação elétrica neuromuscular foi menos eficaz do que a reabilitação tradicional na função, força muscular e amplitude de movimento. No entanto, essa técnica é útil para a ativação do quadríceps durante os primeiros dias após a cirurgia.

Aerobic training modulates T cell activation in elderly women with knee osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis of the knee (kOA) is a disease that mainly affects the elderly and can lead to major physical and functional limitations. However, the specific effects of walking, particularly on the immune system, are unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the effect of 12 weeks of walking (3×/week) on the leukocyte profile and quality of life (QL) of elderly women with kOA. Sixteen women (age: 67±4 years, body mass index: 28.07±4.16 kg/m2) participated in a walking program. The variables were assessed before and after 12 weeks of training with a progressively longer duration (30–55 min) and higher intensity (72–82% of HRmax determined using a graded incremental treadmill test). The QL was assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and blood samples were collected for analysis with a cell counter and the San Fac flow cytometer. Walking training resulted in a 47% enhancement of the self-reported QL (P<0.05) and a 21% increase in the VO2max (P<0.0001) in elderly women with kOA. Furthermore, there was a reduction in CD4+ cells (pre=46.59±7%, post=44.58±9%, P=0.0189) and a higher fluorescence intensity for CD18+CD4+ (pre=45.30±10, post=64.27±33, P=0.0256) and CD18+CD8+ (pre=64.2±27, post=85.02±35, P=0.0130). In conclusion, the walking program stimulated leukocyte production, which may be related to the immunomodulatory effect of exercise. Walking also led to improvements in the QL and physical performance in elderly women with kOA.

Effects of resistance training in older women with knee osteoarthritis and total knee arthroplasty

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to analyze the effects of resistance training on functional performance, lower-limb loading distribution and balance in older women with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and osteoarthritis (OA) in the contralateral knee. In addition, this older knee OA and TKA group (OKG) was compared to older (OG) and young women (YG) without musculoskeletal diseases who underwent the same resistance training program. METHODS: Twenty-three women divided into OKG (N = 7), OG (N = 8) and YG (N = 8) had their functional performance, lower-limb loading distribution and balance compared before and after 13 weeks of a twice-weekly progressive resistance training program. RESULTS: At baseline, the OKG showed lower functional performance and unilateral balance, and impaired lower-limb loading distribution compared to the OG and the YG (p<0.05). After resistance training, the OKG showed improvements in functional performance (∼13% in sit-to-stand and rising from the floor, ∼16% in stair-climbing and ∼23% in 6-minute walking (6 MW)), unilateral balance (∼72% and ∼78% in TKA and OA leg, respectively) and lower-limb loading distribution, which were greater than those observed in the OG and the YG. The OKG showed post-training 6 MW performance similar to that of the OG at baseline. Sit-to-stand performance and unilateral stand balance were further restored to post-training levels of the OG and to baseline levels of the YG. CONCLUSIONS: Resistance training partially restored functional, balance and lower-limb loading deficits in older women with TKA and OA in the contralateral knee. These results suggest that resistance training may be an important tool to counteract mobility impairments commonly found in this population. .

Análise da reprodutibilidade da circumetria do joelho em indivíduos com osteoartrite / Reproducibility analysis of knee circumference in individuals with osteoarthritis

A osteoartrite de joelho apresenta como principais sintomas a dor, perda de função e edema articular. O edema articular é definido como um acúmulo de líquido na articulação decorrente do processo inflamatório progressivo contribui para o dano articular, provoca limitação da amplitude de movimento do joelho, diminuição da propriocepção articular e afeta a capacidade funcional e a qualidade de vida do indivíduo. A mensuração do volume articular é fundamental na prática clínica. A circumetria de joelho utilizando-se uma fita métrica é uma técnica amplamente utilizada, acessível e de baixo custo. No entanto, por ser considerada subjetiva não há embasamento científico que suporte seu uso. Objetivo: Analisar a reprodutibilidade desta técnica em indivíduos com osteoartrite do joelho. Método: Os participantes foram submetidos a duas avaliações realizadas por dois examinadores independentes, em momentos distintos. A mensuração da circumetria do joelho foi realizada utilizando-se uma fita métrica de 150 cm de comprimento, adotando como referência o polo superior da patela. Resultados: Foram incluídos 114 indivíduos. De acordo com o coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCI), foi possível observar forte correlação (CCI = 0,98) entre os examinadores. Conclusão: A utilização de uma fita métrica como recurso para mensurar a circumetria do joelho em indivíduos com osteoartrite é um método confiável e reprodutível.

Knee osteoarthritis presents pain, loss of function, and joint swelling as its main symptoms.The joint swelling is defined as an accumulation of fluid in the joint due to the inflammatoryprocess that contributes to progressive joint damage; it causes limitation in the range of kneemotion, decreases proprioception, and affects the functional capacity and the quality of life ofthe individual. The measurement of articular cartilage volume is essential in clinical practice.The measurement of knee circumference using a measuring tape is a widely used, inexpensive,and accessible technique. However, as it is considered subjective, there is no evidence tosupport its use. Objective: To examine the reproducibility of this technique in patients with kneeosteoarthritis. Method: Participants underwent two evaluations performed by two independentraters, at different times. The measurement of knee circumference was performed using ameasuring tape 150 cm in length, taking as reference the superior pole of the patella. Results: Theknee circumferences of 114 individuals were measured. According to the intraclass correlationcoefficient (ICC), we observed a strong correlation (ICC = 0.98) between raters. Conclusion: The useof a measuring tape as a resource to measure knee circumference in individuals with osteoarthritisis a reliable and reproducible method.

Conceitos atuais em osteoartrite / Current concepts in osteoarthritis

A osteoartrite (OA), forma mais comum de doença articular, afeta principalmente quadris, joelhos, mãos e pés, levando a grande incapacidade e perda de qualidade de vida, sobretudo na população idosa. A importância desta doença cresce a cada ano, na medida em que observamos uma tendência de envelhecimento da população brasileira, com grande aumento da população idosa em relação aos mais jovens. O progressivo entendimento da fisiopatologia da OA, a percepção de que o processo não é puramente mecânico e/ou de envelhecimento, e o esclarecimento das vias inflamatórias envolvidas levaram, recentemente, à aplicação clínica de vários outros medicamentos e medidas. Esta atualização tem como objetivo expor os mais recentes conceitos sobre a fisiopatologia e tratamento da OA.

Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common form of joint disease, affects mainly the hips, knees, hands and feet, leading to severe disability and loss of quality of life, particularly in the elderly population. Its importance grows every year with the aging of the population, with a large increase in the elderly population compared to younger patients. The progressive understanding of the pathophysiology of OA, the perception that the process is not purely mechanical and/or aging, and clarification of the inflammatory pathways involved led recently to the clinical application of various drugs and other measures. This update aims to expose the current concepts on the pathophysiology and treatment of OA.

Ensaio clínico prospectivo e randomizado: regime único e semanal de viscossuplementação / Prospective randomized clinical trial: single and weekly viscosupplementation

OBJETIVO: Comparar dois regimes de aplicação de um ácido hialurônico (AH) (Osteonil® -TRB Pharma), avaliando se a aplicação única de 6ml deste AH tem a mesma eficácia do regime clássico de três aplicações semanais de 2 ml.MÉTODOS: 108 pacientes com osteoartrose de joelhos foram randomizados em dois grupos de 54 pacientes. Os pacientes do grupo U foram submetidos ao procedimento de viscossuplementação com aplicação única de 6ml de ácido hialurônico e 1 ml de hexacetonido de triancinolona. Os pacientes do grupo S foram submetidos a procedimento de viscossuplementação através de três aplicações com 2 ml de ácido hialurônico com uma semana de intervalo entre elas, sendo que na primeira aplicação também foi realizada a infiltração de 1 ml de hexacetonido de triancinolona. Os grupos foram avaliados previamente e com um e três meses de aplicação, respondendo aos questionários de WOMAC, Lequesne, VAS e IKDC.RESULTADOS: Não houve diferença estatística entre a aplicação única de 6 ml de AH e a aplicação clássica com três injeções semanais. No entanto, apenas o regime clássico demonstrou melhora estatisticamente significante em relação aos valores basais de dor.CONCLUSÃO: Ambos os regimes de aplicação melhoram a função, mas o regime de três aplicações semanais de 2 ml foi mais eficiente na analgesia. Nível de Evidência I, Estudo Clínico, Prospectivo e Randomizado.

OBJECTIVE: To compare two different dosages of an intermediate molecular weight sodium hyaluronate (HA) (Osteonil®-TRB Pharma) assessing whether a single 6 ml application of this HA has the same effectiveness as the classical three-weekly 2 ml dose.METHODS: 108 patients with knee osteoarthritis were randomized into two groups of 54 patients each. The groups were designated "single" (S) and "weekly" (W). Patients in group S underwent a viscosupplementation procedure by application of only 6 ml of sodium hyaluronate and 1 ml triamcinolone hexacetonide. Patients in group W underwent the procedure of viscosupplementation through three applications with 2 ml sodium hyaluronate with a week interval between them, and the first application was also performed with the infiltration of 1 ml (20 mg) of Triamcinolone Hexacetonide. Both groups were assessed before, at one month and three months after application, by responding to the WOMAC, Lequesne, IKDC and VAS questionnaires.RESULTS: There was no statistical difference between the single application of 6 ml of sodium hyaluronate and classic application with three weekly injections. However, only the classical regime showed statistically significant improvement in baseline pain (WOMAC pain and VAS).CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that both application schemes improve application function, but the three-weekly regimen of 2 ml was more effective in reducing pain. Level of Evidence I, Prospective Randomized, Clinical Trial.

Medidas de resultados (outcomes) utilizados en la Investigación del tratamiento kinésico de la osteoartritis de rodilla: estudio descriptivo / Most frequent outcomes used in recent investigations concerning treatment of knee osteoarthritis

INTRODUCTION: Knee Osteoarthritis (OA) is a frequent disorder in the adult population, highly disabling. The non-pharmacological treatment of choice is physical therapy. The latest has as main objective to improve the functionality of the patient, which valuation allows distinguishing any change in the symptoms of the subject. Health outcomes are an indicator of the efficacy of health related attention, and are used in every research that requires checking the effectiveness of a therapy. PURPOSE: To establish the most common outcomes used in recent investigations concerning treatment of knee OA. METHODS: A transversal, non experimental and descriptive study was carried out, in which the Clinical-Trials.gov section of Pub Med database was reviewed, between August and October of 2011. 98 articles that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were selected. Data was processed in Excel and analyzed with the statistical program STATA 11.0 RESULTS: The most frequent outcomes to evaluate knee OA were: WOMAC, pain, VAS, exams and muscular strength. The most evaluated dimension were pain (34,6 percent), quality of life and functionality (30,6 percent), and finally physical fitness (25,5 percent). The interventions executed with more frequency were physical training, use of physical agents, orthosis, taping and splints. CONCLUSION: Among the variety of kinesic procedures, the most studied intervention in knee OA is physical exercise. Its effectiveness is evaluated with symptoms, such as pain, and patient functionality. The inclusion of these outcomes in pre and postgraduated education, the professional practice and local clinical research will allow an adequate implementation of the available evidence of this pathology in the upcoming years. .

INTRODUCCIÓN: La OsteoArtritis (OA) de rodilla es un trastorno frecuente en la población adulta, altamente discapacitante. Su tratamiento no farmacológico de elección es la kinesiterapia. Ésta tiene como objetivo principal mejorar la funcionalidad del paciente, cuya valoración permite advertir si hay cambios en la sintomatología del paciente. Las medidas de resultado (outcome, en inglés) son un indicador de la eficacia de la atención en salud y son utilizados en toda investigación que requiera comprobar la efectividad de una terapia. OBJETIVO: Determinar los outcomes más utilizados en las recientes investigaciones sobre el tratamiento de la OA de rodilla. MÉTODOS: Se realizó una investigación de carácter descriptivo, en la que se revisó la sección Clinical-Trials.gov de la base de datos PubMed, entre Agosto y Octubre de 2011. Se seleccionaron 98investigaciones que cumplieran con los criterios de inclusión para el análisis. Los datos fueron procesados en Excel y análizados con el programa estadístico STATA 10.1. RESULTADOS: Los outcomes más utilizados para evaluar la OA fueron: WOMAC, dolor, VAS, exámenes y fuerza muscular. La dimensión más evaluada fue dolor(34,6 por ciento, luego calidad de vida y funcionalidad (30,6 por ciento), y finalmente condición física (25,5 por ciento). Las intervenciones realizadas con mayor frecuencia fueron el entrenamiento físico, el uso de agentes físicos, órtesis, vendajes y férulas. CONCLUSIONES: Dentro de la multiplicidad de procedimientos kinésicos, la intervención más estudiada en la OA de rodilla es el ejercicio físico. Su efectividad se evalúa mediante la sintomatología dolorosa y la funcionalidad del paciente. La inclusión del conocimiento de estos outcomes en la formación de pre y postítulo, en la práctica profesional y en las investigaciones clínicas locales permitirá una adecuada aplicabilidad de la evidencia disponible en los próximos años en esta patología.

Exercícios de fortalecimento de quadríceps são efetivos na melhora da dor, função e qualidade de vida de pacientes com osteoartrite do joelho / Quadriceps strengthening exercises are effective in improving pain, function and quality of life in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee

OBJETIVO: Verificar o efeito de um programa de fortalecimento de quadríceps com duração de oito semanas na dor, função e qualidade de vida de pacientes com osteoartrite do joelho. MÉTODOS: Cem pacientes foram randomizados em dois grupos: 1- Grupo Exercício (GEx) e 2 - Grupo Orientação (GO). O teste Timed Up and Go (TUG), a Escala Numérica de Dor (END) e o questionário SF-36 foram utilizados para a avaliação. RESULTADOS: Oitenta e um pacientes completaram a pesquisa. Considerando a análise por intenção de tratar, houve melhora estatisticamente significante no GEx quando comparado ao GO em todas as variáveis avaliadas. CONCLUSÃO: O programa de exercícios de fortalecimento do quadríceps por nós aplicado foi efetivo na melhora da dor, função e qualidade de vida de pacientes com osteoartrite do joelho. Nível de Evidência I, Ensaio Clínico Randomizado.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this research was to verify the effectiveness of an eight-week quadriceps strengthening program on pain, function and quality of life of patients with knee osteoarthritis. METHODS: A hundred patients were randomized into two groups: 1- Exercise Group (ExG) and 2- Orientation Group. The Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) and the Short Form-36 were used for the assessment. RESULTS: Eighty-one patients completed the survey. According to the intention to treat (ITT) analysis, there was statistically significant difference in ExG compared to OG in all the variables assessed. CONCLUSION: The program quadriceps strengthening exercises applied in this randomized clinical trial was effective in improving pain, function and quality of life of patients with knee osteoarthritis. Level of Evidence I, Randomized Clinical Trial.

Muscle strength and exercise intensity adaptation to resistance training in older women with knee osteoarthritis and total knee arthroplasty

OBJECTIVES: To analyze muscle strength and exercise intensity adaptation to resistance training in older women with knee osteoarthritis and total knee arthroplasty. METHODS: Twenty-three community-dwelling women were divided into the following groups: older, with knee osteoarthritis and total knee arthroplasty in the contralateral limb (OKG; N= 7); older, without symptomatic osteoarthritis (OG; N= 8); and young and healthy (YG; N= 8). Muscle strength (1-repetition maximum strength test) and exercise intensity progression (workload increases of 5 percent-10 percent were made whenever adaptation occurred) were compared before and after 13 weeks of a twice-weekly progressive resistance-training program. RESULTS: At baseline, OKG subjects displayed lower muscle strength than those in both the OG and YG. Among OKG subjects, baseline muscle strength was lower in the osteoarthritic leg than in the total arthroplasty leg. Muscle strength improved significantly during follow-up in all groups; however, greater increases were observed in the osteoarthritic leg than in the total knee arthroplasty leg in OKG subjects. Greater increases were also seen in the osteoarthritic leg of OKG than in OG and YG. The greater muscle strength increase in the osteoarthritic leg reduced the interleg difference in muscle strength in OKG subjects, and resulted in similar posttraining muscle strength between OKG and OG in two of the three exercises analyzed. Greater exercise intensity progression was also observed in OKG subjects than in both OG and YG subjects. CONCLUSIONS: OKG subjects displayed greater relative muscle strength increases (osteoarthritic leg) than subjects in the YG, and greater relative exercise intensity progression than subjects in both OG and YG. These results suggest that resistance training is an effective method to counteract the lower-extremity strength deficits reported in older women with knee osteoarthritis and total knee arthroplasty.

Manual for guided home exercises for osteoarthritis of the knee

INTRODUCTION: Physiotherapy is one of the most important components of therapy for osteoarthritis of the knee. The objective of this prospective case series was to assess the efficiency of a guidance manual for patients with osteoarthritis of the knee in relation to pain, range of movement , muscle strength and function, active goniometry, manual strength test and function. METHODS: Thirty-eight adults with osteoarthritis of the knee (> 45 years old) who were referred to the physiotherapy service at the university hospital (Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo) were studied. Patients received guidance for the practice of specific physical exercises and a manual with instructions on how to perform the exercises at home. They were evaluated for pain, range of movement, muscle strength and function. These evaluations were performed before they received the manual and three months later. Patients were seen monthly regarding improvements in their exercising abilities. RESULTS: The program was effective for improving muscle strength, controlling pain, maintaining range of movement of the knee joint, and reducing functional incapacity. DISCUSSION: A review of the literature showed that there are numerous clinical benefits to the regular practice of physical therapy exercises by patients with osteoarthritis of the knee(s) in a program with appropriate guidance. This study shows that this guidance can be attained at home with the use of a proper manual. CONCLUSIONS: Even when performed at home without constant supervision, the use of the printed manual for orientation makes the exercises for osteoarthritis of the knee beneficial.

Assessment of balance impairments in patients with knee osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems, can affect on patient's daily activity and produce dependency in their daily activity and functional disability; The aim of present study is to compare static balance in patients with knee osteoarthritis and healthy subjects using force plate. Postural stability in knee OA patients and healthy subjects [each group 20 subjects] were measured by force plate. Two positions were selected double stance with closed or opened eyes. Range of fore/aft [Rfa] and Range of side ways [Rsw], were measured as static postural stability. Rsw increased significantly in the double stance position in patients group [P<0.05]. Also in both groups, Rsw and Rfa in the double stance with closed eyes were more than of open eyes position [P<0.05]. Postural control deficits and increase of center of pressure's sway were identified in participants with knee osteoarthritis. Therefore, one of the most important goals of rehabilitation is to improve balance control in knee OA patients

Guía clínica tratamiento médico en personas de 55 años y más con artrosis de cadera y/o rodilla leve o moderada / Clinical guide medical treatment in persons 55 years and over with osteoarthritis of the hip and/or mild moderate knee

La importancia de la Artrosis u Osteoartritis (OA), radica en su alta frecuencia, las molestias que ocasiona a quienes la padecen y el importante deterioro funcional que suele asociarse al compromiso de rodillas y/o caderas. La Artrosis u Osteoartritis (OA), es la enfermedad articular más frecuente. Su frecuencia va aumentando con la edad, y en los mayores de 60 años se estima que más del 80 por ciento presenta alteraciones radiológicas de OA en al menos una articulación. Es difícil realizar comparaciones directas entre diferentes estudios epidemiológicos, ya que en general difieren en la metodología empleada. El diagnóstico radiológico se ha considerado como el patrón de referencia para estudios epidemiológicos de OA, pero los altos costos hacen que los estudios poblacionales, particularmente en Latinoamérica, sean escasos. Estudios más recientes emplean estrategias que apuntan a evaluar sólo a los que son sintomáticos. La prevalencia de la osteoartritis aumenta con la edad. En estudios de necropsias la OA es casi universal en mayores de 65 años. Un estudio Holandés, usando diagnóstico radiológico, realizado en 6.585 individuos, elegidos de manera aleatoria de la población general, demostró una prevalencia creciente con la edad, especialmente en las mujeres. Los datos a nivel mundial son escasos. En OA de caderas, se han reportado valores de 47 hasta 88 casos por 100.000 habitantes, mientras que para la rodilla se han estimado incidencias entre 164 y 240/100.000.

Osteotomia tibial alta em pacientes com artrose do joelho / High tibial osteotomy in patients with knee arthrosis

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o tratamento da gonartrose medial com osteotomia tibial tipo cunha de fechamento lateral associado à liberação da articulação tibiofibular proximal. MÉTODOS: Realizamos esta técnica associado com liberação da articulação tibiofibular proximal no tratamento da gonartrose medial em 36 pacientes (41 joelhos) de janeiro de 1995 a abril de 2003, com idade de 53,4 anos (média), seguidos por 51,6 meses (média). RESULTADOS: Na avaliação notamos que as osteotomias tibiais com cunha de fechamento lateral permitem correção satisfatória da deformidade fêmorotibial, com angulação femorotibial final em torno de 7º de valgo; o eixo mecânico foi desviado da região tibial medial (posição 1,2 por cento) para o centro do joelho (posição 50,5 por cento); a inclinação tibial na incidência perfil pré-operatória de 9,8º foi corrigida para 6,5º (média); a mobilidade articular apresentou perda de 2,3º na extensão (média). CONCLUSÃO: A técnica permite correção satisfatória da deformidade em varo fêmorotibial, porém não é isenta de complicações (14,6 por cento). O grau de satisfação (Lysholm) dos pacientes teve incremento de 27,3 para 89. Assim, constitui uma parte essencial no arsenal de tratamento da gonartrose.

PURPOSE: To assess medial gonarthrosis treatment with wedge-like side-closed tibial osteotomy combined with proximal tibial-fibular joint release. METHODS: we employed this technique combined with proximal tibial-fibular joint release in the treatment of medial gonarthrosis in 36 patients (41 knees), from January 1995 to April 2003, with mean age of 53.4 years, followed-up for 51.6 months (in average). RESULTS: In the assessment, we noticed that wedge-like side-closed tibial osteotomies allow for a satisfactory repair of the femorotibial deformity, with end femorotibial angle of about 7º valgus; the mechanical axis was dislocated from the medial region of the tibia (position: 1.2 percent) to knee center (position: 50.5 percent); the 9.8º tibial bent at preoperative lateral plane was fixed to 6.5º (mean); joint motion showed 2.3º loss at extension (mean). CONCLUSION: This technique allows for a satisfactory repair of femorotibial varus deformity, but is not free of complications (14.6 percent). The level of patient satisfaction (Lysholm) grew from 27.3 to 89. Thus it constitutes an essential part of the gonarthrosis treatment arsenal.

Fisioterapia aquática no tratamento da osteoartrite de joelho: série de casos / Aquatic therapy in knee ostearthritis treatment: series of cases

A osteoartrite de joelho é uma das doenças reumáticas mais prevalentes pelo fato de suportar grandes cargas de peso. O quadro clínico de dor, rigidez articular e perda da função frequentemente levam à redução de capacidade funcional e da qualidade de vida. Uma das principais intervenções terapêuticas no tratamento é a fisioterapia aquática, porém há poucos estudos que verificam os seus benefícios. Foi realizado um estudo com 10 pacientes com diagnóstico de osteoartrite de joelho, de ambos os sexos, com média de idade de 56 anos. Antes e após o tratamento, os pacientes foram avaliados por meio de uma ficha pré-elaborada que continha vários instrumentos. O tratamento consistiu de 20 sessões de fisioterapia aquática, com frequência de 3 vezes semanais e duração de 50 minutos por sessão. Considerando-se variáveis significantes com p-valor menor que 0,05. Ao término das 20 sessões, os pacientes apresentaram melhora da amplitude de movimento de flexão (ativo e passivo p-valor=0,0025) e extensão de joelho (ativo p-valor=0,0089) e passivo p-valor=0,0544, melhora significante tanto no Índice de Lequesne quanto no WOMAC (p-valor=0,00253). Em relação à força muscular de quadríceps, não houve dados estatisticamente significantes pós-tratamento (p-valor=0,0544). Por meio dos achados deste estudo, sugere-se que a fisioterapia aqu-atica possa ser uma boa alternativa de tratamewnto fisioterapêutico nos pacientes com osteoartrite de joelho