Effectiveness of lumbopelvic hip-core stabilisation exercises versus conventional strengthening exercises on electromyographic analysis of vastus medialis oblique activation in knee osteoarthritis
Nevatha S, Kotteeswaran K, Kamalakannan M, Priyadarshini Babu Rajendra Prasad, Hariharan J, Josyula Snigdha
Nevatha S, Kotteeswaran K, Kamalakannan M, Priyadarshini Babu Rajendra Prasad, Hariharan J, Josyula Snigdha – Effectiveness of lumbopelvic hip-core stabilisation exercises versus conventional strengthening exercises on electromyographic analysis of vastus medialis oblique activation in knee osteoarthritis – Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 23-27
DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D19CE52
Abstract
Introduction. Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common and debilitating condition, particularly affecting the medial compartment of the tibiofemoral joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and functional limitations. Exercise therapy, including muscle strengthening, is a primary conservative treatment for managing OA symptoms. The vastus medialis oblique (VMO) plays a crucial role in patellar stability, and its dysfunction is frequently associated with knee OA, contributing to altered joint mechanics and increased pain. Lumbopelvic hip-core exercises focus on improving control of trunk and pelvic movements, which may influence lower limb alignment and reduce knee joint load. Conventional quadriceps strengthening exercises primarily target the knee extensors, with an emphasis on enhancing VMO function.
Aim. The aim of the study was to determine which exercise approach is more effective in enhancing VMO activation, improving knee stability, and optimizing rehabilitation outcomes.
Materials and methods. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 104 individuals diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis were recruited from Saveetha Hospital. Each group completed five exercise sessions per week over a four-week period. Electromyographic (EMG) analysis was used to assess muscle activation patterns and determine which intervention more effectively enhanced VMO activation.
Results. The post-test mean value for the experimental group was 60.29, while the control group had a mean of 48.15 (p < 0.0001). This indicated a statistically significant difference between the experimental and conventional exercise groups.
Conclusion. This study concludes that lumbopelvic hip-core stabilisation exercises are more effective than conventional quadriceps strengthening exercises in enhancing VMO activation, improving knee stability, and supporting rehabilitation in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.
Key words
knee osteoarthritis, vastus medialis oblique, lumbopelvic hip-core stabilisation, conventional strengthening, surface EMG
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