EFFECTIVENESS OF ISOTONIC EXERCISES ON QUADRICEPS - HAMSTRING STRENGTH RATIO IN OSTEOARTHRITIC FEMALES

Abstract

To evaluate the Q/H strength ratio, before and after the isotonic exercises.
The Quasi experimental design was selected in this study. 50 female patients
with knee osteoarthritis and disturbed Quadriceps – Hamstring (Q/H) ratio were
assessed through Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Range Of Motion, Kellgren-Lawrence
Scale and Repetition Maximum (RM). All of the patients were assessed at
1st visit, and then 15 sessions of isotonic exercises were given. They were examined
again at 15th day to assess the effects of isotonic exercises on Q/H ratio.
There was a significant difference in Q/H ratio before and after isotonic exercises.
The average Q/H ratio before an exercise was less (0.8712 ± 0.1174) as
compared to the ratio taken after exercises (0.9832 ± 0.1127). The P-value was
less than 0.05 that was significant. The strength of quadriceps and hamstring
muscles were increased, hence reduced the intensity of pain.
The isotonic exercises were found to be effective for strengthening of quadriceps
and hamstring muscles. There was a significant increase in Q/H ratio after
isotonic exercises, with improvement in pain and ROM. This may improve their
daily functional activities.