Rheumatology: Current Research
Open Access

Abstract

Effects of Cycling Rehabilitation Training on Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Fangbo Bing, Yan Wang, Shane Fei Chen, Guoxin Zhang and Ming Zhang*

Studies have shown that individuals with Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) may benefit from cycling exercise. However, the supportive evidence remains unclear. This systematic review with meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effects of Cycling Rehabilitation Training (CRT) on the recovery of osteoarthritic knee joints. Five databases were searched with publishing date restrictions from 1 January 2000 to 1 June 2023. We included 21 studies with 1181 participants that 1) recruited participants with KOA, 2) used CRT in the intervention, 3) compared measurements before and after the intervention or between intervention group and control group, and 4) included the measurements of interest. The quality of the 21 included studies was moderate with a mean quality score of 18.76 which was assessed by the modified Downs and Black checklist. The random-effects meta-analysis of Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis scores, Lequesne index, and scores of Timed Up and Go test were conducted on eight studies which contain the numerical comparison results for the variables of interest. The changes in muscle strength, kinetics, and kinematics as a result of the intervention were summarized. CRT improved muscle strength and physical function (MD 8.39, 95% CI (5.56, 11.23)), and reduced pain (MD 3.02, 95% CI (2.21, 3.84)) and joint stiffness (MD 1.26, 95% CI (0.82, 1.70)) in KOA patients. Compared with healthy subjects, limited studies revealed that KOA patients showed increased extensor moments and abduction and adduction peak angles their knee joints, and decreased internal rotation moment and peak angles of knee flexion and extension. CRT was effective in relieving knee pain, restoring motor function, and improving lower limb muscle strength. Knee abduction moment may be an indicator of rehabilitation progress. This systematic review would give insights into the CRT intervention guideline for patients with KOA.

Published Date: 2023-09-17; Received Date: 2023-06-16