Knee osteoarthritis (OA) accounts for a significant proportion of mobility limitations and is one of the most disabling problems facing the growing population of older adults. The long-term objective of this research is to reduce disablement of older adults with symptomatic knee OA. The principle of specificity of training indicates that exercises that closely approximate the goal functional activity are most effective in improving physical performance during that activity. Based on this principle, the specific aim of this pilot study is to design a patient-specific gait training intervention using analysis of compensatory joint moments and energy expenditure. Successful completion will inform rehabilitation for maintaining or improving mobility as well as explore the mechanism of effect.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
27
Gait training with physical therapist 2/week for 3 months
University of Iowa
Iowa City, Iowa, United States
Changes in functional limitation assessed by the A) Summary Performance Score which includes balance tests, timed 4-meter walk, and timed chair stand test B) Timed stair climb C) Late Life Function and Disability Instrument (LLFDI) Questionnaire
Time frame: 12 weeks
Changes in the disability measure, a timed 400 meter walk
Time frame: 12 Weeks
Changes in impairments assessed using the Knee and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) questionnaire
Time frame: 12 Weeks
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