This RCT evaluates whether WATERinMOTION aquatic therapy improves pain, function, and quality of life more effectively than land-based exercise in obese men with knee osteoarthritis (OA). We will assess clinical outcomes (WOMAC), serum biomarkers (COMP, IL-6), and real-world activity (accelerometry) at baseline, 8 weeks, and 6 months.
100 participants (BMI ≥30, age 45-65, radiographic knee OA) will be randomized to: Aquatic group: 24 sessions over 8 weeks (3x/week) in 32°C water, progressing from buoyancy-assisted to resistance exercises. Land group: Matched duration/intensity land-based rehabilitation. Primary outcomes: WOMAC pain/function. Secondary outcomes: SF-36 quality of life, serum COMP, 6-minute walk test, and accelerometer-measured step count.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
100
Supervised WATERinMOTION sessions (60 mins, 3x/week) in heated pool. Focus on progressive resistance and mobility exercises.
Matched frequency/duration land-based program emphasizing core stabilization and low-impact aerobics.
Sport Sciences Department
Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran
WOMAC Pain Subscale
Change from baseline in WOMAC pain score (0-20 scale).
Time frame: Baseline, 8 weeks, 6 months
WOMAC Function Subscale
Change in functional disability (0-68 scale).
Time frame: Baseline, 8 weeks, 6 months
SF-36 Quality of Life
Physical/Mental Component Summaries (0-100).
Time frame: Baseline, 8 weeks, 6 months
Serum COMP
Change in cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (ng/mL).
Time frame: Baseline, 8 weeks
Daily Step Count
Measured via ActiGraph GT9X accelerometer.
Time frame: Continuous over 8 weeks
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