Abstract
Knee osteoarthritis
(OA) is associated with quadriceps atrophy and weakness, so muscle
strengthening is an important point in the rehabilitation process. Since
pain and joint stiffness make it often difficult to use conventional
strength exercises, neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) may be
an alternative approach for these patients. This study was aimed at (1)
identifying the associations of knee OA with quadriceps muscle
architecture and strength, and (2) quantifying the effects of a NMES
training program on these parameters. In phase 1, 20 women with knee OA
were compared with 10 healthy female, asymptomatic, age-matched control
subjects. In phase 2, 12 OA patients performed an 8-week NMES strength
training program. OA patients presented smaller vastus lateralis
thickness (11.9 mm) and fascicle length (20.5%) than healthy subjects
(14.1 mm; 24.5%), and also had a 23% smaller knee extensor torque
compared to the control group. NMES training increased vastus lateralis
thickness (from 12.6 to 14.2 mm) and fascicle length (from 19.6% to
24.6%). Additionally, NMES training increased the knee extensor torque
by 8% and reduced joint pain, stiffness, and functional limitation. In
conclusion, OA patients have decreased strength, muscle thickness, and
fascicle length in the knee extensor musculature compared to control
subjects. NMES training appears to offset the changes in quadriceps
structure and function, as well as improve the health status in patients
with knee OA.
Copyright © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society.
www.acuknee.com
Copyright © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society.
www.acuknee.com
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