Isokinetic Evaluation of the Knee in Patients with Osteoarthritis of Knees and Its Relationship with Walking Time

ABSTRACT

Muscle functions are limited in patients with osteoarthritis of knees. In patients with osteoarthritis, isokinetic testing of knee musculature reveals decreased peak torque and increased walking time(50-ft). The purpose of this study was to demonstrate deficiency in muscular performance of knee, and the relationship between walking time and isokinetic parameters of muscular strength, endurance and pain of knee in patients with osteoarthritis of knees. The subjects were divided into a control group and the study group. The control group consisted of 40 persons without a knee pain, and the study group consisted of 30 patients with osteoarthritis of knees. The peak torque of patients in the study group was decreased by 16-21%, compared to that the control group. There was a negative relationship between the walking time and the endurance of knee extensors(r=?0.7195). These findings suggest that exercises to increase the strength and endurance of extensors and flexors of knees should be emphasized in the rehabilitation program for the osteoarthritis of knees.