Objectives: This study evaluates the efficacy of Tai Chi versus balance training on functional performance and postural control during sit and stand transitions in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.
Design: Single-blind randomized trial.
Methods: Sixty-nine patients with knee osteoarthritis were assigned to Tai Chi (n = 35) or balance training (n = 34) for 12 weeks. Assessments were conducted pre- and post-intervention. A motion analysis system and force plates were used to measure center of mass displacement and velocity, trunk flexion angle, knee extension moment, and movement duration during sit and stand transitions. Symptoms and function were assessed by the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score.
Results: Twenty-four participants in the Tai Chi group and 28 participants in the Balance group completed the trial. The main effects of time showed significant reductions in movement duration, trunk flexion angle, and anterior-posterior center of mass displacement during sit and stand transitions in both groups (p ≤ 0.014). Both groups showed significant reduced peak backward center of mass velocity and increased peak downward center of mass velocity during stand-to-sit after training (p ≤ 0.021). Furthermore, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score indicated significant improvements in symptoms and function in both groups (p ≤ 0.002).
Conclusions: Tai Chi and balance training are both effective exercise therapies for improving symptoms, functional performance and postural control during sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit transitions in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. These interventions may serve as viable alternative therapies for managing symptoms and enhancing function in individuals with knee osteoarthritis
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