The Influence of Physical Therapy on Functional Outcomes in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Clinical Observational Study

Abstract

Objective: By measuring pain relief, improved joint function, and improved knee-related quality of life, this clinical observational study sought to determine the effects of physical therapy on functional outcomes in individuals with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

Methods: This 12-month trial included 200 adult KOA patients. Baseline WOMAC and KOOS scores, medical history, and demographic information were gathered. The physical therapy regimen was followed by the participants. Using paired t-tests, changes in WOMAC and KOOS scores were examined.

Results: Patients experienced significant pain reduction (50% decrease in WOMAC pain score), significant joint function improvement (75% increase in WOMAC physical function score), and improved knee-related quality of life (ranging from 40% to 60% improvements in KOOS domains) after physical therapy.

Conclusion: The findings are consistent with the body of research and demonstrate how physical therapy can enhance the functional outcomes of KOA patients. The observed clinical gains highlight the practical applicability of physical therapy in the treatment of KOA. Physical therapy programmes that target pain, joint function, and quality of life may be a beneficial non-invasive treatment choice for KOA patients. These results need to be confirmed by additional research in order to guide therapeutic practise, particularly RCTs and long-term follow-up studies.