Static Low-Angle Squatting Reduces the Intra-Articular Inflammatory Cytokines and Improves the Performance of Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the major diseases leading to disability, and inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of OA. However, inflammation of OA is multifactorial, chronic, and in low intensity, which makes drug-based immunotherapy difficult. Here, we have designed a novel method of exercise—static low angle squat (SLAS), which reduces the intra-articular inflammation of OA knee as well as strengthens the vastus medialis of quadriceps. A two-year follow-up trial of current exercise methods demonstrated long-term, significant improvement in pain relief, range of motion, muscle strength, and knee stability.