Efficiency of Vibration or Strength Training for Knee Stability in Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Background: The diagnosis of osteoarthritis of the knee is becoming more common as life expectancy increases. Strength training has been proven to be an effective treatment. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of whole body vibration in comparison to strength training to treat patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. 39 persons participating in special outpatient groups for osteoarthritis of the knee agreed to take part in the study. They were randomly distributed into a vibration group (15), a strength training group (115) and a control group (9). The traditional strength training for the thigh muscles was performed twice a week for 45 min, and the vibration training was also done twice a week for 16 min for a total of 8 weeks. Before and after training, the isometric strengths for the extensors were measured at 60 degrees knee flexion and the isokinetic strengths for flexion and extension at 60 degrees/s in the concentric mode for both legs. Based on the anamnesis the legs were defined as the more effected and the less effected leg. During the training period, knee pain was monitored daily using a visual scale. Results: Isometric extension strength increased in both groups significantly, with slightly more increase seen in the effected leg of the vibration group. The isokinetic flexion and extension strength also increased in both groups; flexion strength increasing slightly more in the vibration group. During the intervention pain decreased in both groups. in the control group, no significant changes occurred at any measurement points. Conclusion: Vibration training yields similar results as traditional strength training for strength gain and reduction of pain, but is more efficient with respect to the training time necessary.