Effectiveness of Proprioceptive Training Versus Muscle Energy Technique on Pain, Range of Motion and Functional Disability in Individuals with Knee Osteoarthritis

Abstract

This study investigated the comparative effectiveness of proprioceptive training and muscle energy techniques in individuals with knee osteoarthritis, a condition characterized by pain, joint stiffness, decreased muscle strength, and proprioceptive deficits. Sixty participants meeting the selection criteria were randomly assigned to two groups: Group A received proprioceptive training three days per week, two sessions per day for six weeks, while Group B received muscle energy techniques three days per week for six weeks. Pain, range of motion, and functional disability were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Goniometer, and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), respectively. Data analysis with paired t-tests showed significant improvements within both groups, while independent t-tests revealed that proprioceptive training produced greater improvements across all outcomes compared to muscle energy techniques. The findings conclude that while both interventions are effective, six weeks of proprioceptive training is superior in reducing pain, improving range of motion, and minimizing functional disability in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.