Evaluation of pain, functionality and quality of life of women with knee osteoarthritis undergoing aerobic exercise and photobiomodulation

Abstract

Currently Brazil has a large demographic variation, with a drop in fertility rate and an increase in life expectancy. This growth of the elderly population generates chronic-degenerative dis-eases. Among them, osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of pain and disabi-lity in adults, as it promotes symptoms that directly affect functionality. Because of this situa-tion, non-pharmacological methods, such as physical exercise, are beneficial in several aspects. In addition, features such as photobiomodulation have shown favorable results. Thus, the objective of this study is to investigate the effects of aerobic exercise protocol and photobiomodulation on the pain, functionality, joint stiffness and quality of life in patients with knee OA. Thirty-four individuals with II and III grade of knee OA will be evaluated, randomized into 2 groups: Exercise and Photobiomodulation Placebo Group (EPPG, n = 17), treatment through an aerobic exercise protocol associated with photobiomodulation placebo or Exercise and Photobiomodulation Active Group (EPAG, n = 17), treatment through an aero-bic exercise protocol associated with photobiomodulation active. The interventions will be performed 2x / week for a period of 8 weeks. The exercise program will include the warm-up, aerobic exercise, and cooling phase. The cluster (850nm, 100mW, 4J / point totaling 56J) will be applied to the most affected lower limb after exercise. Visual Numeric Scale (VNS), Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and Short form 36 (SF-36) health survey questionnaire will be used for evaluation and reevaluation. In addition, Goniometry of knee flexion and the 30-second Chair Stand Test and Stair Climb Test will be performed. For data analysis, normality in terms of sample distribution will be ascertained for the choice of appropriate statistical tests. Key-words: Osteoarthritis of the knee, Quality of Life, Functionality, Exercise, Phototherapy.