A Comparative Study on the Effectiveness of Rhythmic Stabilization Technique (PNF) and Conventional Physiotherapy in the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee presents with pain, joint difficulty, reduced range of motion (ROM), and impaired proprioceptive accuracy, impacting the quality of life for affected individuals. Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) stretching techniques have emerged as interventions to address muscle flexibility, pain, and ROM in OA. Recent research has highlighted impaired proprioceptive accuracy as a contributing factor in the onset and progression of knee OA. Rhythmic stabilization, a component of PNF, targets mechanoreceptor stimulation, offering promise in alleviating OA symptoms.

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of rhythmic stabilization PNF with conventional physiotherapy in managing knee OA. Thirty-six participants aged 40-60 were randomly assigned to two groups: Group A received rhythmic stabilization PNF, while Group B received conventional physiotherapy. Outcome measures included the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain assessment. Results indicated significant pain reduction, increased flexibility, and improved functional mobility in both groups post-treatment. However, the rhythmic stabilization PNF group demonstrated superior outcomes compared to conventional physiotherapy alone. This suggests that rhythmic stabilization PNF is more effective in reducing pain, enhancing flexibility, and promoting functional independence in Grade 2-3 knee OA. These findings underscore the potential of incorporating rhythmic stabilization PNF into OA management protocols to optimize patient outcomes