Effectiveness of Intensive Physical Rehabilitation Therapy on Knee Joint Function Among Patients with Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) remains one of the leading causes of disability among adults worldwide, significantly limiting mobility and quality of life. Although pharmacological management offers temporary symptom relief, long-term efficacy remains suboptimal.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an intensive physical rehabilitation therapy program compared to conventional physiotherapy in improving knee joint function, reducing pain, and enhancing overall mobility among patients with knee OA.

Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 180 adults (aged 40–75 years) diagnosed with moderate knee OA (Kellgren–Lawrence grades II–III). Participants were randomized into two groups: the Intensive Physical Rehabilitation Therapy (IPRT) group (n=90) received a structured 12-week intervention involving progressive resistance exercise, manual therapy, and proprioceptive training, while the Control group (n=90) received standard hospital-based physiotherapy. Primary outcomes were pain intensity (VAS) and joint function (WOMAC). Secondary outcomes included quadriceps strength, range of motion (ROM), and quality of life (SF-36). Statistical analysis used paired and independent t-tests with p<0.05 considered significant.

Results: After 12 weeks, the IPRT group demonstrated a significant reduction in pain (mean ΔVAS = –3.6 ± 0.9 vs –1.8 ± 0.7; p<0.001), improved joint function (ΔWOMAC = –21.3 ± 5.8 vs –10.4 ± 4.1; p<0.001), and increased quadriceps strength (Δ = +4.2 ± 0.8 kg; p<0.01). Improvement in SF-36 physical function subscale was also greater in the IPRT group (p<0.05). No adverse events were reported.

Conclusion: Intensive physical rehabilitation significantly enhances knee joint function and pain reduction compared to standard physiotherapy.