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Informative Article | Health and Medical Sciences | India | Volume 10 Issue 12, December 2021 | Popularity: 3.2 / 10
Optimizing Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment: Strengthening VMO and Gluteal Muscle with Dry Needling
Vidit Atul Phanse
Abstract: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common and prevalent orthopedic condition progressing due to cartilage degradation, leading to pain, inflammation, and functional impairment, particularly in individuals over 50 years of age. Osteoarthritis is exacerbated by muscle loss, decreased bone density, and altered joint mechanics caused by aging. Muscle weakness around the knee joint, especially in the quadriceps and hamstrings, leads to increased joint stress and abnormal gait patterns, further accelerating cartilage breakdown. Key muscle groups such as the vastus medialis obliques (VMO) and gluteal muscles play a crucial role in stabilizing the knee and influencing joint function. Weakness in these muscles can result in improper patellar tracking and increased knee stress causing pain. While strengthening exercises can alleviate symptoms and improve knee stability one should be aware that over doing some exercises especially leading to end range knee flexion can increase pain. Effective rehabilitation protocol includes strength training of the VMO and gluteal muscles, combined with neuromuscular reeducation to enhance coordination and address muscle imbalances with functional strengthening. A comprehensive approach that includes these strategies can significantly ease the effects of knee OA, improve joint function, and enhance overall quality of life. Including dry needling before or after these treatments help improve muscle length tension, lead to muscle relaxation and reduce pain. Future research should investigate the impact of these interventions across different age groups to optimize treatment protocols for knee OA with dry needling treatments before exercise therapy.
Keywords: knee osteoarthritis, muscle weakness, knee joint stability, rehabilitation exercises, pain management
Edition: Volume 10 Issue 12, December 2021
Pages: 1540 - 1542