Effect of Proper Use of Cane and Physical Therapy Management to Reverse Hamstrings Tightness and Abductors Weakness Due to Improper Use in Knee and Hip OA Patients
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Abstract
Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that significantly impairs mobility and quality of life, particularly among the elderly. The use of canes, when applied correctly, can alleviate joint stress, reduce pain, and improve functional mobility. However, improper use can exacerbate symptoms such as hamstring tightness and abductor weakness.
Objective: To investigate the effects of targeted physical therapy and proper cane usage on pain reduction, enhanced range of motion, and improved gait parameters in patients with knee and hip OA.
Methods: This quasi-experimental study enrolled 40 participants aged 40-80 years with diagnosed knee and hip OA from public and private healthcare facilities in Faisalabad. Participants received education on proper cane use and engaged in a physical therapy program consisting of exercises for stretching hamstrings and strengthening abductors, three times a week. Outcomes measured included WOMAC pain scores, hip and knee range of motion (ROM) via goniometry, Trendelenburg test duration for abductor strength, and gait parameters (stride length and cadence). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing the Wilcoxon signed-rank test to evaluate pre- and post-intervention changes.
Results: Significant improvements were noted post-intervention with the WOMAC pain score decreasing from a mean of 6.2 ± 1.5 to 3.1 ± 1.3 (p < 0.001). Hip extension increased from 20 ± 5 degrees to 30 ± 6 degrees (p < 0.001), and knee flexion improved from 90 ± 10 degrees to 110 ± 9 degrees (p < 0.001). Trendelenburg test duration improved from 10 ± 2 seconds to 25 ± 5 seconds (p < 0.001), and gait parameters showed an increase in stride length from 0.8 m ± 0.1 to 1.0 m ± 0.1 (p < 0.001) and cadence from 90 steps/min to 100 steps/min (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Proper cane use combined with a structured physical therapy regimen significantly reduces pain and improves both joint mobility and gait dynamics in patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis. These interventions are crucial for enhancing quality of life and mobility in OA patients.
Keywords: Osteoarthritis, Cane Usage, Physical Therapy, Gait Parameters, Range Of Motion, WOMAC Pain Score, Knee Osteoarthritis, Hip Osteoarthritis, Trendelenburg Test, Mobility Aids.
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