Effect of Mechanical Traction in Osteoarthritis Knee

Vaishali Jagtap, S. Shanmugam

Abstract: Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) of knee is degenerative joint disease which contributes significantly to functional limitation and disability in older people. Pain and joint space reduction is commonly seen in them. Just like manual joint distraction is found to be beneficial likewise mechanical joint distraction can be beneficial. Objectives: To find effectiveness of mechanical traction in Osteoarthritis knee. To find effect of conventional therapy (Ultrasound and exercises) and mechanical traction in treating Osteoarthritis Knee. Methods: 50 subjects of 50-60 years age, having OA knee were recruited. They were allocated into 2 groups and treated with ultrasound (US), exercises and mechanical traction for 7 sessions over a period of 1 week. Daily assessment was done, pre and post intervention outcomes were measured using Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Result: Both the groups showed improvement but there was significant improvement on WOMAC Scale in group treated with mechanical traction, US and exercises. Conclusion: Mechanical traction, Ultrasound and exercises are effective in management of Osteoarthritis (OA) knee.

Keywords: Osteoarthritis, Joint Distraction, Ultrasound, Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index, Mechanical Knee Traction