Effects of biofeedback assisted isometric exercise and electrical stimulation on pain, anxiety and depression scores in knee osteoarthritis

Abstract

Objective: Effects of Biofeedback Assisted Isometric Exercise and Electrical Stimulation on Pain, Anxiety and Depression Scores in Knee Osteoarthritis The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of biofeedback assisted isometric exercises and electrical stimulation program, on pain, disability, anxiety and depression scores in knee osteoarthritis. Materials and methods: Fifty women between 42 and 74 years old with the diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis according to ACR criteria participated in the study. Patients were randomized into two groups. For both groups a 20 minute therapy was applied 5 days a week. Both groups were treated for 4 weeks. Patients were evaluated before and after the therapy. Outcome measures included Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) pain score for pain, WOMAC physical function scores for disability and Hospital Anxiety Depression (HAD) for anxiety and depression. Results: Both treatment groups showed significant improvements in WOMAC pain and physical function scores (p<0.001). Both groups also demonstrated significant improvements in anxiety and depression scores (p<0.001). Conclusion: In this study we obtained decrease in pain and disability, improvements in anxiety and depression scores in knee osteoarthritis patients by reguler exercise and electrical stimulation therapy. According to our findings, we conclude that both treatment protocols can be used in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.