INTRODUCTION: Pain and functional limitations affect quality of life of patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of two different applications (Kinesio taping; KT and Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy; ESWT) added to an home-exercise program on pain, strength and function in patients with knee OA. METHODS: Sixty voluntary female subjects were randomly assigned into groups of; KT (n = 22), ESWT (n = 18) and control (CON) (n = 20) respectively. KT and ESWT were applied for 6 weeks and all the groups were taken home exercise program during 12 weeks in all groups. The outcome measures were; Visual Analog Scale for pain (during squat, rest and sleep), Isokinetic strength for quadriceps and hamstring strength, 'The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Survey', Timed Up and Go and 10 m Walk Tests for function. The assessments were carried out at baseline, 6th and 12th weeks. RESULTS: The mean age was 58.8 +/- 6.2 years. Significant improvements were observed in all groups in all tests (p < 0.05). There was no difference found between groups (p > 0.05) except pain levels during sleep. CON group showed significant reduction in pain during sleep compared to ESWT group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: KT and ESWT have similar effects in terms of decreasing pain, improving knee strength and function in patients with knee OA. However it can be said that if a well-designed home exercise program were done by the patients correctly and regularly then it will be the best treatment option for patients with knee OA.

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