Effects of Pilates training VS. Suspension training on quality of life in women with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial

Osteoarthritis is the most common synovial joint disease and is characterized by progressive destruction of the articular cartilage. This study aimed to compare the effect of Pilates and suspension training in patients with knee Osteoarthritis. The participants in this randomized trial study were patients with knee Osteoarthritis. In this study, 30 females (61.40 ± 4.85 years) were divided into three groups of suspension training, Pilates, and control group. Participants were randomly assigned to 8-week (3x/week, 1 h/session) Pilates and suspension training program groups. The static and dynamic balance, range of motion, and knee function were respectively measured by The Stork stand balance test, Y balance test, Goniometers, and The WOMAC performance disability questionnaire. To analyze the findings, a dependent sample t-test, covariance test, and Bonferroni's post hoc test were used (P ≤ 0.05). Dynamic and static balance in the suspension training and Pilates training caused a significant increase (P ≤ 0.05) compared to the control group. Also, the range of motion and motor performance in the suspension training and Pilates training showed a significant decrease (P ≤ 0.05) compared to the control group. The suspension training compared to the Pilates training was more effective on dynamic and static balance (P ≤ 0.05). Also, the suspension training compared to the Pilates training had more effect on Range of motion and Motor performance (P ≤ 0.05). It seems that Pilates and suspension training can be used in medical centers as a complementary rehabilitation method among female patients with knee Osteoarthritis to improve the dynamic and static balance, range of motion, and performance.