The Comparative Study of Clinical Efficacy of Different Load-bearing Exercise Therapies for Early Knee Osteoarthritis Patients

Objective: This study aims to investigate the effects of different weight-bearing exercise therapies combined with conventional drug treatment on knee biomechanics and functional outcomes in patients with early-stage knee osteoarthritis (KOA), conduct comparative analyses, clarify the clinical value of progressive load training, and provide evidence-based support for optimizing conservative treatment strategies for early-stage KOA. Methods: A total of 150 patients with unilateral KOA meeting Kellgren-Lawrence grade I-II criteria were enrolled and randomly assigned to three groups: conventional drug therapy (control group), non-weight-bearing exercise therapy, and progressive weight-bearing exercise therapy, with 50 patients in each group. The intervention period lasted 12 weeks. Patients underwent assessments of Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores, Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), Stair Climbing Test (SCT), and isometric quadriceps strength testing at baseline and at weeks 4, 8, and 12. The progressive loading group incorporated 5-pound and 10-pound resistance bands during training. Results: Patients in the progressive resistance group demonstrated the most significant improvements in WOMAC scores, VAS scores, TUG, SCT, and isometric strength tests (P<0.01). Compared to the conventional therapy group, the non-resistance exercise group also showed some improvement, but the effect was inferior to that of the progressive resistance group. Gait parameter analysis revealed that the progressive resistance group exhibited marked improvements in stride length and stance time, indicating superior knee stability and lower limb function. Conclusion: Progressive weight-bearing exercise therapy combined with conventional drug treatment significantly enhances quadriceps strength, improves joint function, alleviates pain, and optimizes gait mechanics in patients with early-stage KOA. This approach demonstrates superior safety, efficacy, and practicality compared to traditional drug therapy and non-weight-bearing exercise interventions, making it suitable for widespread adoption in primary care facilities and rehabilitation centers.