Comparison of proprioceptive functions between computerized proprioception facilitation exercise and closed kinetic chain exercise in patients with knee osteoarthritis

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare proprioceptive function between computerized proprioception facilitation exercise (CPFE) and closed kinetic chain exercise (CKCE) for knee osteoarthritis. Design: Randomized-controlled. Setting: Kinesiology laboratory. Patients: Eightyone patients with bilateral knee osteoarthritis were randomly assigned to CPFE, CKCE, and control groups. Intervention: Both exercise groups underwent an 8-week program of three sessions per week. The control group received no training. The CPFE program included a 20-min computer game to be played by the trained foot of the subject. CKCE included 10 sets of 10 repetitions of repeated knee extension and flexion with resistance of 10-25% of body weight. Main outcome measures: Absolute reposition error, functional score, walking speed, and knee muscle strength were assessed with an electrogoniometer, the physical function subscale of Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index, a CASIO stopwatch, and a Cybex 6000 dynamometer before and after the 8-week period. Results: The results of this study showed that both CPFE and CKCE were effective in improving joint position sense, functional score, walking speed, and muscle strength. Furthermore, CKCE showed greater effect in increasing knee extensor torque in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Conclusion: Clinical effects of CPFE were the same as those of CKCE except for knee extensor torque. The increase in knee extensor torque in CPFE patients was not as great as that seen in CKCE patients.