Effect of adding whole-body vibration training to squat training on physical function and muscle strength in individuals with knee osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate the effects of adding whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise to squat training (ST) on the physical function and muscle strength of patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). METHODS: 41 participants completed the intervention and measurements (ST group; n=21, age=65.00±4.39 years, BMI=23.01±2.95 kg/m(2); WBV+ST group; n=20, age=64.10±4.95 years, BMI=24.79±3.12 kg/m(2)). The supervised eight-week intervention was performed three times per week with the intensity and duration increased gradually. Visual analog scale, Timed Up and Go test (TUG), 6-min Walk Distance test, and isokinetic measurements were performed at baseline and post-intervention. RESULTS: The peak torque (PT) of the extensors at 180°/s increased significantly in the WBV+ST group compared with the ST group (p = 0.046). The peak work of the extensors and the PT of the flexors at 180°/s improved only in the WBV+ST group (p<0.0125). However, no significant changes in these variables were found between groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Adding 8 weeks of WBV training to ST can more effectively improve the muscular strength of knee extensors compared with ST in patients with KOA.