Effect of Retro Walking Versus Balance Training on Pain and Functional Disability of Geriatric Patients with Knee Joint Osteoarthritis: Randomized Controlled Trail

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant professor of Gerontological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing - Mansoura University, Egypt

2 Assistant professor of Gerontological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing - Mansoura University,Egypt

3 Assistant professor of Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine - Mansoura University, Egypt

4 Lecturer of Gerontological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing - Mansoura University, Egypt

Abstract

Background: Knee joint osteoarthritis is a prevalent condition among geriatric population, leading to chronic pain and functional disability that significantly impact quality of life. Traditional approaches to managing knee osteoarthritis have included medication, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery. However, there is a growing interest in nonpharmacological and non-surgical interventions that can alleviate symptoms and improve functionality. Aim of the study: Determine the effect of retro walking versus balance training on pain and functional disability of geriatric patients with knee joint osteoarthritis Subjects and Methods; Research design: A randomized controlled trial research design was utilized in this study. Setting: The study was conducted at outpatient clinic of rheumatology and rehabilitation department affiliated to Mansoura University Hospital. Subjects: A purposive sample of 72 geriatric patients diagnosed with knee joint osteoarthritis were included in the study and randomly divided into three equal groups; training group (retro walking group and balance training group) and control group 24 participant each. Tools of data collection: The
data were collected through demographic and health-related characteristics interview sheet, Intermittent and constant osteoarthritis pain measure, and Ibadan knee/hip osteoarthritis measure. Results: Study findings showed statistical difference in pain and functional disability in the three groups with significantly better improvement in the intervention groups (retro walking and balance raining) compared with the control group (p<0.001). Conclusion: Training comprising retro walking as an adjunct to conventional therapy resulted in greater pain reduction and enhanced functional performance of geriatric patients with OA knee. Recommendation: For such patients, it is recommended to practice this application as a part of their daily walking action.

Keywords