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Treat the Hip to Improve Knee Arthritis
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Posted on: 11/30/1999
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Physical therapists notice things about patients that aren't obvious to others. For example, the authors of this study point out that patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) often have problems with one or both hips. The authors think treating the hip may decrease knee pain and stiffness.
Two groups of patients were studied: 22 patients with knee OA, and 17 subjects with no leg problems or symptoms of arthritis. The groups were matched up as closely as possible by age and gender. A physical therapist tested each person using four special tests of the hip.
Anyone with knee OA who felt pain in the hip was treated with hip mobilizations. Treatment with mobilization is a way to gently move the joint through its range of motion without the patient's help. The same four tests were repeated after treatment with mobilizations. Pain and range of motion were measured during each test.
The authors report that pain was reduced in all four tests after treatment. Motion was increased for two (but not all) of the tests. The results of this study show that a hip exam is a good idea in patients with symptoms of knee arthritis. The hip may be causing or adding to the knee problems. Treatment of the hip may be needed.
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References:
Amy V. Cliborne, MPT, et al. Clinical Hip Tests and a Functional Squat Test in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: Reliability, Prevalence of Positive Test Findings, and Short-Term Response to Hip Mobilization. In Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. November 2004. Vol. 34. No. 11. Pp. 676-685.
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*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic. |
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