Resistance Training Versus Non-Weight Bearing Exercise for Knee Osteoarthritis Pain

Abstract

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disorder in older adults that causes pain, mobility limitations, and reduced quality of life. Exercise therapy is recommended as a core non-pharmacological intervention, with resistance training and non-weight bearing exercise frequently used in clinical practice. 
Objective: To compare the effectiveness of resistance training and non-weight bearing exercise in reducing knee pain among older adults with knee OA.
Methods: A quasi-experimental, non-randomized pretest-posttest study was conducted among 30 older adults with grade I–II knee OA at RSIJ Pondok Kopi. Participants were allocated into a resistance training exercise group (n=15) and a non-weight bearing exercise group (n=15) using purposive sampling. Both interventions were performed three times weekly for four weeks under physiotherapist supervision. Pain was assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain subscale. Data were analyzed using paired and independent sample t-tests.
Results: WOMAC pain scores significantly decreased in both groups after the intervention (p<0.001). In the resistance training group, scores decreased from 10.27±4.57 to 8.87±4.05, while in the non-weight bearing exercise group scores decreased from 9.80±2.95 to 8.40±2.55. The mean reduction was 1.40 points in both groups. No significant between-group difference was observed (p=0.709).
Conclusion: Resistance training and non-weight bearing exercise were equally effective in reducing knee pain among older adults with grade I–II knee OA. Both interventions may be considered effective physiotherapy options for pain management.