Effect of Vibration Training with Different Frequencies on Lower Limb Muscle Strength and Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis in Old Adults / 中国康复理论与实践

ABSTRACT

Objective:To explore the effect of vibration training with different frequencies on muscle strength and symptoms of lower limb joints in the elderly suffering from knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Methods:From July to October, 2019, 82 KOA elderly were randomly divided into control group (n = 20), low frequency group (n = 20), medium frequency group (n = 21) and high frequency group (n = 21). The latter three groups received 15 Hz, 30 Hz and 45 Hz vibration training, respectively, with the same amplitude (3 mm), 15 minutes a time, three times a week, for 16 weeks. The flexion and extension isokinetic muscle strength (60°/s and 180°/s) of lower limb joints were tested, and they were assessed with Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index before and after training. Results:After training, the peak torques of knee extensor under 60°/s and 180°/s increased in the medium frequency group (|t| > 2.162, P <0.05), the peak torques of knee and ankle extensors under 60°/s and 180°/s increased in the high frequency group (|t| > 2.227, P <0.05), the endurance of hip and knee extensors increased (|t| > 1.997, P < 0.05), and the score of pain significantly decreased (t = 16.901, P < 0.001) in the high frequency group. After training, the peak torques of knee and ankle extensors under 60°/s, the endurance of hip and knee extensors were higher in the high frequency group than in the low frequency group and the medium frequency group (P < 0.05); the peak torques of hip, knee and ankle extensors under 180°/s were higher in the high frequency group than in the low frequency group (P < 0.05); the score of pain was lower in the high frequency group than in other groups (P < 0.05). Conclusion:45 Hz vibration training could improve the absolute force and explosive force of knee and ankle extensors, and the endurance of hip and knee extensors; and relieve pain in KOA elderly.