OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of concentrically-focused resistance training (CNCRT) to eccentrically-focused resistance training (ECCRT) on physical function and functional pain in knee osteoarthritis (OA). DESIGN: Randomized, single-blinded controlled four-month trial. Older adults with knee OA (N = 88; 68.3 +/- 6.4 yr, 30.4 +/- 6.9 kg/m2 and 67.4% women) were randomized to ECCRT, CNCRT or no-exercise control (CON). Main outcomes included chair rise time, stair climb time, six-minute walk test distance, temporalspatial parameters of gait, community ambulation and functional pain. RESULTS: Leg muscle strength improved in both training groups compared to CON. There were no significant group x time interactions for any functional performance score (chair rise time, stair climb time, six-minute walk test distance, gait parameters, community ambulation). Compared to CON, functional pain scores were reduced for chair rise (-38.6% CNCRT, -50.3% ECCRT versus +10.0%) and stair climb (-51.6% CNCRT, -41.3% ECCRT versus +80.7%; all p < 0.05). Pain scores were reduced during the six-minute walk and in early recovery with CNCRT compared to the remaining two groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Either resistance exercise type improves activity-related knee OA pain, but CNCRT more effectively reduced severity of ambulatory pain and pain upon walking cessation.

Full text (sometimes free) may be available at these link(s):      help

• DOI
• PubMed
• PDF locator
• publisher