STUDY DESIGN: Randomized clinical trial. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical and functional efficacy of 2 different non-weight-bearing exercise regimens, proprioceptive training (PrT) versus strength training (ST), for patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). BACKGROUND: Both strength and proprioceptive training are important interventions for individuals with knee OA. The benefits of weight-bearing exercises are generally recognized in the clinical setting. However, exercising in a standing or weight-bearing position may aggravate symptoms in patients with knee OA. METHODS AND MEASURES: One hundred eight patients were randomly assigned to the PrT, ST, or no exercise (control) group for an 8-week intervention. Both the PrT and ST interventions consisted of non-weight-bearing exercises. Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index-pain (WOMAC-pain) and -function scores, walking time on 3 different terrains, knee strength, and absolute knee reposition error were assessed before and after intervention. Data were analyzed using mixed-model ANOVAs. RESULTS: Both PrT and ST significantly improved WOMAC-pain and -function score after intervention (p < 0.008). The improvement secondary to ST in the WOMAC-function scores (17.2 points) and for knee extension strength (10.3 to 14.9 Nm) was greater than the minimally clinically important difference for these measurements. The PrT group demonstrated greater improvement in walking time on a spongy surface and knee reposition error than the other 2 groups. No improvements were apparent in the control group. CONCLUSION: Both types of non-weight-bearing exercises (PrT and ST) significantly improved outcomes in this study. PrT led to greater improvements in proprioceptive function, while ST resulted in a greater increase in knee extensor muscle strength.

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