Roper (2013) Acute Aquatic Treadmill Exercise Improves Gait and Pain in People With Knee Osteoarthritis

Acute Aquatic Treadmill Exercise Benefits for Knee Osteoarthritis

Introduction to Osteoarthritis and Exercise

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of disability, particularly affecting the knee, leading to decreased mobility and quality of life. Traditional exercise regimens often exacerbate knee pain, hindering adherence to beneficial aerobic training. Aquatic treadmill exercise, offering reduced joint loading and pain, presents a promising alternative for OA patients.

Study Design and Objectives

This study employed a quasi-experimental crossover design to assess the immediate effects of aquatic versus land treadmill exercise on gait kinematics and OA-related pain in 14 participants with knee OA. The hypothesis was that aquatic treadmill exercise would result in improved gait kinematics and reduced pain compared to land treadmill exercise.

Methodology Overview

Participants underwent three sessions of both aquatic and land treadmill exercises, with gait kinematics and pain levels assessed before and after each exercise mode. The aquatic exercises were performed at chest depth to utilize the buoyancy, warmth, and pressure of water for therapeutic benefits.

Key Findings

Post-exercise assessments revealed significant improvements in joint angular velocity for the knee and hip during aquatic treadmill exercise, indicating enhanced gait dynamics. Conversely, land exercise showed limited improvements, primarily in hip flexion, suggesting possible compensatory mechanisms to manage joint pain and limitations. Notably, perceived pain significantly decreased following aquatic exercise, highlighting its potential to enhance exercise tolerance and effectiveness for OA patients.

Implications for OA Management

The findings support the inclusion of aquatic treadmill exercise in OA management strategies, emphasizing its advantages in improving joint function and reducing pain. This modality offers a viable alternative to traditional land-based exercises, potentially enabling longer and more beneficial workout sessions for OA patients.

Future Directions and Considerations

While the study demonstrates the acute benefits of aquatic treadmill exercise for knee OA, further research is needed to explore long-term outcomes and optimize exercise protocols. The positive patient feedback on aquatic exercise also underscores the need for greater accessibility to such therapeutic options in community settings.