Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Department of Sports Injuries and Corrective Exercises, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran
2
Sports Science Department, Kish International Campus, University of Tehran, Kish, Iran
3
Department of Sports Injuries and Corrective Exercises, Faculty of Sports Science, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
Abstract
Purpose:
Knee osteoarthritis is caused by the wear and tear of the knee joint cartilage is a natural process. However, it can occur sooner among athletes based on the type of sport and the pressure on the knee joints that can be really intense. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect and durability of a home-exercise program based on NASM principles as well as its impact on range of motion, balance, and dynamic gait parameters of male retired athletes suffering from knee arthritis.
Methods:
In this semi-empirical study, as many as 24 male retired athletes suffering from knee arthritis were randomly selected and divided into two groups of 12 subjects (the NASM exercising group and the control group). The empirical group did NASM exercises at home for eight weeks. Range of motion with Goniometer, balance with berg balance scale and dynamic gait parameters with dynamic gait parameter test were evaluated before, after eight weeks of exercise, and also after four weeks of non-exposure to exercise. Data analysis was performed using repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests at a 5% error level using SPSS 24 software.
Results:
NASM exercises have resulted in a significant increase in the amount of knee range of motion, range of motion of the femur, balance, and dynamic gait parameters in the post-test and durability stages compared to the pre-test. The range of motion of the knee (p<0.001) and femur (p = 0.007) in the durability phase was significantly reduced compared to the post-test but in equilibrium (p = 0.080). As well as dynamic gait parameters (p = 0.501), there was no significant difference between the two stages of post-test and durability. Additionally, no significant difference was found in the control group (p>0.05).
Conclusion:
Apparently, NASM exercises can lead to improvements in range of motion, balance, and dynamic gait parameters among male retired athletes suffering from knee arthritis. That is why, it is highly recommended for these people.
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