The effect of balance exercises on central sensitization in patients with knee osteoarthritis

ABSTRACT The Effect of Balance Exercises on Central Sensitization in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of balance exercises on functional status, pain, balance and central sensitization of pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Material and Method: Forty patients diagnosed with bilateral stage ≥2 primary knee osteoarthritis and associated central sensitization were included in the study. Patients were randomized into two groups. A balance exercise program was applied to the treatment group by a specialist physiotherapist for 6 weeks, 3 days a week on alternating days, and an information brochure about knee osteoarthritis was given. The control group was informed about knee osteoarthritis and given a written brochure. Both groups were evaluated at baseline, after treatment (6thweek) and at 12thweek. Outcome measures were The Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Berg Balance Scale and Y Balance Test. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of demographic characteristics. The treatment group revealed significant improvements in all clinical parameters. At the end of the treatment (6th week), the improvement in the CSI score, WOMAC pain, physical function and total scores, the Y balance test scores in all aspects for both legs, and the VAS activity score were significantly higher in the treatment group than in the control group (p<0,001). When the changes that occurred between baseline and the 12th week were analyzed; It was determined that the treatment group was superior to the control group in the improvement of all parameters except WOMAC pain (p=0,05), Berg balance (p=0,257) and VAS resting scores (p=0,078). Conclusion: It has been concluded that balance exercises are an effective treatment method that can be used to improve central sensitization, functional status and dynamic balance in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Keywords: Exercise, Osteoarthritis, Knee, Central sensitization, Balance