Effectiveness of mulligan mobilization with conventional physiotherapy for knee osteoarthritis : a randomized controlled trial.

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA), or degenerative joint disease, is characterized by the degradation of articular cartilage. This results in damage to the underlying bone and the development of osteophytes at the joint margins. Osteoarthritis is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder that impacts synovial joints, resulting in pain and restricted mobility for several people worldwide. Methodology: This research employs a randomized, single-blind controlled trial. A total of 32 adult patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis (OA) engaged in the study. The outcome measures included the following: We used the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) to assess pain intensity throughout various activities and use a goniometer for calculating range of motion (ROM). We used the Oxford Grading System and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) Index to evaluate muscle strength and functional activities. Results: The study demonstrated significant improvements in pain, range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, and functional outcomes in the experimental group. We observed significant decreases in pain during resting (p = 0.000), sitting (p = 0.000), standing (p = 0.001), walking (p = 0.001), activities of daily living (p = 0.001), and weight-bearing (p = 0.001). The range of motion (ROM) significantly improved in both active and passive flexion and extension (p<0.001), and muscle strength exhibited notable enhancement in knee extension (p = 0.004); however, knee flexion was non- significant (p = 0.317). Between-group analysis indicated no significant variations in range of motion, with comparable outcomes for knee extension and flexion (p = 0.723 and p = 0.075). The WOMAC scores selected the experimental group, while the differences between groups were not statistically significant (p = 0.157). The intervention greatly improved pain management, range of motion, muscle strength, and functional outcomes in the experimental group. Conclusions: In individuals diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis (OA), mobilization with movement (MWM) has demonstrated greater effectiveness compared to conventional treatments in alleviating pain, enhancing range of motion (ROM), increasing muscle strength, and improving functional results. Keywords: Knee Osteoarthritis, Mulligan’s (MWM), Conventional Physiotherapy.