EFFECTIVENESS OF ISOTONIC EXERCISES ON QUADRICEPS - HAMSTRING STRENGTH RATIO IN OSTEOARTHRITIC FEMALES

To evaluate the Q/H strength ratio, before and after the isotonic exercises. The Quasi experimental design was selected in this study. 50 female patients with knee osteoarthritis and disturbed Quadriceps – Hamstring (Q/H) ratio were assessed through Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Range Of Motion, Kellgren-Lawrence Scale and Repetition Maximum (RM). All of the patients were assessed at 1st visit, and then 15 sessions of isotonic exercises were given. They were examined again at 15th day to assess the effects of isotonic exercises on Q/H ratio. There was a significant difference in Q/H ratio before and after isotonic exercises. The average Q/H ratio before an exercise was less (0.8712 ± 0.1174) as compared to the ratio taken after exercises (0.9832 ± 0.1127). The P-value was less than 0.05 that was significant. The strength of quadriceps and hamstring muscles were increased, hence reduced the intensity of pain. The isotonic exercises were found to be effective for strengthening of quadriceps and hamstring muscles. There was a significant increase in Q/H ratio after isotonic exercises, with improvement in pain and ROM. This may improve their daily functional activities.