Impact of Proprioception Training Program on Knee Function and Health Status among Elderly Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

Age related changes take place over time cause knee osteoarthritis that cause knee joint become uncomfortable, edema, stiffness, and weakness, all of which eventually led to impairment and had an adverse impact on health status of elderly patients. Study aim: Evaluate the impact of proprioception training program on knee function and health status among elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis. Design: Quasi-experimental research was used. Settings: This study was done at Rheumatology and Rehabilitation outpatient clinic at Assiut University Hospital. Sample: Purposive sample was used and calculated by EPI info; it is estimated that 140 patients. The exercise program applied to 50% of this sample that was 70 geriatric patients. Tool I: A structured interview questionnaire. Tool II: Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index: this tool used to evaluate disability of patients. Tool III: - 36 - Item Short-Form Health Survey: this tool was used to measure health status of patients. Results: The results of this study supported that proprioception training have positive impact on improving physical function and health status among elderly patients as there was statistically significant difference for study group regarding (SF - 36) P=0.0001. Also, there was statistically significant difference between pretest and posttest regarding (WOMAC) index P =0.0001. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that proprioception training program is effective on improving physical function and health status among elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis. Recommendations: Develop and implement proprioception training program on other musculoskeletal disorders like low back pain among elderly patient.