To Analyse The Effect Of Combining Hip Muscle Along With Quadriceps Strengthening & Gender Difference In Unilateral Osteoarthritis Knee Rehabilitation

Objective of the study: The purpose of study is to compare the effects of strengthening the quadriceps combined with strengthening of hip muscles (hamstring, adductors, abductors, extensors) in unilateral OA knee. To compare the gender difference in the rehabilitation protocol of OA knee. Background of the study: Quadriceps weakness is one of the most common and disabling impairments seen in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. Sufficient quadriceps and hip muscles strengthening in both isometric and dynamic strengthening are essential for undertaking basic activities of daily living. Strengthening of the leg muscles in OA patient will help them to have a better balance and stance during the gait cycle. Methodology: 40 subjects were included based on the inclusion criteria out of 60 volunteers, 20(A) male and 20(B) female were randomly assigned to two equal groups10 in each (A1, A2, B1, B2). A1 and B1 will receive the quadriceps strengthening along with SWD. A2 and B2 will receive the quadriceps strengthening & hip muscles strengthening along with SWD. Pre and post test were done using WOMAC scale. Result: On comparing the mean values of all the four groups quadriceps and hip muscle strengthening, shows significant reduction in the post –test mean but(sub Group A2 in Group A) shows (47.59) lower mean value is more effective than other three groups at p≤0.005.Hence null hypothesis rejected and alternate hypothesis accepted. Conclusion: The study showed that there is significant difference in the post test values of quadriceps strengthening along with hip muscles strengthening more for males than females in OA patients of six week study. Group A sub division A2 showed more significant difference than the group B. Hence alternate hypothesis is accepted.