Impact loading following quadriceps strength training in individuals with medial knee osteoarthritis and varus alignment. (February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kean, Crystal O.; Hinman, Rana S.; Wrigley, Tim V.; Lim, Boon-Whatt; Bennell, Kim L.
• Is Part Of: Clinical biomechanics. Volume 42(2017)
• Page Start: 20
• Page End: 24
• Publication Date: 2017-02
• Subjects: Osteoarthritis -- Impact loading -- Strength training -- Quadriceps -- Vertical ground reaction force; Biomechanics -- Periodicals; Osteopathic medicine -- Periodicals; Biomechanics -- Periodicals; Osteopathic Medicine -- Periodicals; 612.76
• DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2017.01.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0268-0033

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Greater impact loading at initial contact is postulated to play a role in the progression of osteoarthritis. Quadriceps weakness is common in individuals with knee osteoarthritis and may contribute to high impact loading. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of quadriceps strengthening on impact loading parameters. Methods: Data from 97 individuals with knee osteoarthritis who participated in a randomized clinical trial examining effects of a 12-week quadriceps strengthening program was used to conduct this secondary exploratory analysis. Participants completed a three-dimensional gait assessment within 10% of 1.0 m/s from which maximum rate of loading (Body Weight/second), average rate of loading (Body Weight/second), and peak vertical ground reaction force during early stance (Body Weight) were determined. Peak isometric quadriceps strength (Nm/kg) was also assessed. Findings: There was a significant increase in quadriceps strength in the training group (mean change (95%CI): 0.35(0.25, 0.045) Nm/kg, P = 0.01) with no change in the control group (mean change (95%CI): 0.03(− 0.39, 0.45) Nm/kg, P > 0.05). There were no changes in impact loading variables. With data from both groups combined, changes in quadriceps strength explained 3% of variance in the change in maximum rate of loading. Change in quadriceps strength was not predictive of the change in peak vertical ground reaction force or average rate of loading. Interpretations: While change in strength was predictive of change in maximal loading rate, this explained only a small proportion of the variance. Future research examining the role parameters such as neuromuscular control play in impact loading are warranted. Highlights: No change in impact loading parameters following quadriceps strengthening Change in quadriceps strength only explain 4% of variance in change in maximal loading response More research into role of neuromuscular control on impact loading is warranted