Exercise as it relates to Disease/Just walk it off? The prospect of physical activity reducing osteoarthritic pain

This is an appraisal of the research article ‘Exercise Training in Treatment and Rehabilitation of Hip Osteoarthritis: A 12-Week Pilot Trial’ (2017) Authors: Uusi-Rasi K, Patil R, Karinkanta S, Tokola K, Kannus P, Sievänen H.



What is the background to this research?
There is general consensus that hip osteoarthritic pain prospectively leads to surgery without considering alternative routes. For some patients the extenuating costs and processes may not be appropriate. Research on aerobic and strength training as the first form of implementation has shown success in mild to moderate cases of knee osteoarthritis. Similarly, hip osteoarthritis could benefit from exercise treatment strategies. There are few clinical trials to date that have examined this, however the results are inconsistent. This article examines specific exercise training around the hip to determine its efficacy and compliance.

Where is the research from?
This article was published by the UKK institute, Tampere, Finland. All authors are employed at the UKK institute and are highly regarded academics experienced in the area of epidemiology and physical activity.

What kind of research was this?
This 12-week pilot trial was a prospective observational study, testing the safety and feasibility of a specifically designed exercise program targeting hip osteoarthritis, to relieve related pain and improve physical function. Thirteen female participants were involved; all aged over 65 years with either unilateral or bilateral hip osteoarthritic pain. Patients presented with moderate to severe restriction in mobility and debilitating pain with everyday activities. Strict exclusion criteria were applied to reduce the impact of confounding results.

Associated studies have developed their research around the benefit of physical activity as treatment for knee osteoarthritis, therefore this study looked to extrapolate this approach to hip osteoarthritis. Alternative research approaches include differing exercise types such as Thai Chi, aquatic or higher loads of aerobic activity. There has been a universal emphasis on individualising the program to each participant; considering their aerobic fitness, strength and range of motion.

What did the research involve?
At baseline participants went through 3 forms of assessment in order to develop the training program and compare with post intervention results.
 * Anthropometry: (measured only at baseline) included height weight, body composition and femoral neck bone mineral density via a DXA scan.
 * Self-reported hip joint pain and physical function: utilising Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) reflecting overall disability; utilised in many related research articles as a prominent indicator. Error may arise as no qualification is required to complete the WOMAC, thus questioning the possibility of bias when self-reporting, resulting in over or underestimated results.
 * Strength, balance and mobility: objective quantitative measures. Assessments included were isometric strength measured with a dynamometer, Short Physical Performance Battery, postural balance using a force platform to determine centre of pressure, balance testing with eyes open or closed. Additionally, pedometers were used to collect number of daily steps taken throughout the entirety of 12 weeks.

Methodology
The exercise program consisted of 3 distinct phases that progressed participants through appropriate neuromuscular and strength stages to meet individual goals and limitations. Programs consisted of both aerobic and resistance components. The stages were implemented well, however, certain prescribed exercises did not relate to the assessment measures, challenging the determination of improvement. Furthermore, as the participant group is female, it is unclear whether males will benefit from similar exercise interventions.

What were the basic results?

 * Overall there was adequate participant tolerance and attendance.
 * WOMAC average pain score and total index decreased approximately 30%; however, large variations in individual results were evident.
 * Joint stiffness, function and balance presented inconsequential change.
 * Isometric leg extensor strength increased 3.8N per body weight.
 * Range of motion: hip extension increased significantly (30%), conversely hip flexion and abduction did not.
 * Observational increase in participant self-efficacy in balance and stability maintenance (not quantified).

The researchers were able to constructively present their findings without statistical exaggeration. They discussed improvements in population outcome in an objective articulate manner, and explored areas for further research. However, no control group was utilised as a comparison. Additionally, it is unclear whether hip extension range of motion, and leg extensor strength contribute to worthwhile improvement for this condition. Inclusion of abduction and flexion joint actions could have improved the overall result. More isometric or dynamic strength testing may have provided alternative perspectives additionally, advanced balance exercises (single leg activities) may improve joint function.

Anti-inflammatories and other agents that are commonly recommended for osteoarthritic patients, have an ability to alter pain perception thus, impacting self-reporting for the WOMAC scale. Changes in osteoarthritic medication were not recorded during this intervention. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were noted as most consumed. No explanation was given as to why medication was not included in data collection, despite having been considered in other interventions.

What conclusions can we take from this research?
Analogously to knee osteoarthritis, the research of Uusi-Rasi et. al presented significant correlation between strength improvement and pain reduction for hip osteoarthritis. Thus, similar protocols may provide improvement for females ≥65 years. Conversely, it is inconclusive whether range of motion gains will further reduce pain. For subsequent research, a greater age bracket could determine valid treatment methods for a larger population of hip osteoarthritic patients. The authors also concluded a larger duration and a longer follow-up period would be ideal.

Comparing similar articles, varied responses have emerged on the type of exercise prescribed and approach by researchers when it comes to predominant outcome measures. Nonetheless, common consequences have led to postponing hip replacement surgery due to the alternative physical activity approach.

There are no implications from this study that will affect individuals in practical advice as the research suggests that individuals should incorporate exercise into their weekly routine, especially resistance training to maintain muscle mass and act as a protective factor against sarcopenia. Individuals looking to incorporate exercise into their weekly schedule should seek help form exercise professionals to attain the best results. This will ensure the safety of individuals when performing exercise as they will have the correct know-how.

Further information/resources
If you wish to extend your knowledge on osteoarthritis & physical activity, please follow the links below:

Fact Sheet: http://exerciseismedicine.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2014-Osteoarthritis-FULL.pdf

Exercising osteoarthritis: https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/exercise/how-to/