Effects of variable frequencies of kinesthesia, balance and agility exercise program in adults with knee osteoarthritis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common painful and disabling condition that affects older individuals. Proprioceptive training programs in the form of kinesthesia, balance agility (KBA) exercises have been reported to be beneficial for individuals with knee OA. However, most optimal dosage KBA still unclear. The aim this study determine effects different frequencies (i.e., twice-weekly or thrice-weekly) adults Methods A single (assessor) blind, three-arm parallel, multi-center randomized controlled trial will conducted. One hundred twenty OA recruited from four tertiary hospitals Northwestern Nigeria randomly assigned into one three intervention groups; ( n = 40), thrice-weekly conventional physiotherapy 40) ratio 1:1:1. Participants group receive two sessions brief patient education, sixteen ultrasound therapy, stretching strengthening 8 weeks. groups according designed weeks addition program. All assessed pre-intervention, immediately post-intervention at 3 months, 4 6 months post-randomization. primary outcome physical function (Ibadan Hip Osteoarthritis Outcome Measure) whereas secondary outcomes pain intensity (Visual Analogue Scale pain), stability (Knee Survey-Activities Daily Living Scale), proprioception (electronic goniometer), quality life (Osteoarthritis Quality Life Questionnaire). Discussion findings may provide evidence on effectiveness exercise ideal number needed achieve highest Trial registration Pan African Clinical Trials Registry PACTR201810713260138 ). Registered 28 November 2017.