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Abstract
Objective
To assess the feasibility of conducting a full-scale-randomized controlled trial investigating whether the addition of a 4-week supervised exercise class was more beneficial in reducing pain and improving function than a home exercise programme (HEP) alone in treating patients following a corticosteroid injection for knee osteoarthritis (OA).
Methods
A total of 32 patients with mild-to-moderate knee OA requiring a knee injection were randomized into one of two groups: HEP group (n = 17) received an injection and were given a HEP, or class group (n = 15) who in addition, attended ×4 weekly supervised exercise classes. The outcome measure was the change in pain and physical function using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis (WOMAC®) Index subscales. Assessments were made at baseline (pre-injection), 2 weeks post-injection, 6 weeks post-injection, and 12 weeks post-injection.
Results
Twenty-eight participants (87.5%) completed the 12-week trial. Both groups had reduced pain and improved function at week 12, with the supervised class group demonstrating better outcomes than those that performed a HEP alone. (Pain −1.7; confidence interval (CI) −5 to 1.6; function −6.8; CI −17.1 to 3.5.) Methodology was found to be appropriate for the research design chosen and procedures suitable for use in a definitive study.
Conclusion
This pilot study suggests that a clinically worthwhile benefit may exist from the addition of a supervised exercise programme compared to a HEP alone in the treatment of knee OA patients post-injection. These results warrant further investigation of this research question in a full-scale study. This pilot study demonstrates the feasibility of conducting such a full-scale trial and contains recommendations for its development.
