Exploring the Benefits of Eccentric Training for Aging Adults With Knee Osteoarthritis

Summary

This study is testing whether a new type of exercise program, called eccentric overload training using a flywheel device, can improve stair-climbing ability in people with knee osteoarthritis. The flywheel device provides resistance throughout the entire movement and gives extra challenge during the muscle-lengthening phase of exercise. This type of training may improve muscle structure, strength, and coordination more effectively than conventional methods. The study's central idea is that better muscle quality and improved coordination will lead to smoother, safer stair movement and reduce the risk of falls. Advanced tools such as ultrasound imaging and motion analysis will be used to measure muscle health and movement patterns in detail. The hypothesis is that individuals with knee osteoarthritis have poorer muscle quality and less coordinated stair-stepping compared to healthy adults, and that performing eccentric overload training will enhance muscle quality, improve movement coordination, and make stair navigation safer and more efficient.

Eligibility

Age range

40–70 years

Sex

All

Healthy volunteers

Yes

Interventions

• Other
  Eccentric resistance training

  The intervention consists of an eccentric overload resistance training program using a portable flywheel exercise device (kBox). This device generates resistance through inertia, meaning that the load is created by the individual's own movement speed and the effort applied. Participants with knee osteoarthritis will train with the flywheel system for 8 weeks, completing two to three sessions each week, with each session lasting approximately 30 to 45 minutes. The program will focus on functional lower-limb exercises such as squats, step-ups, and knee extensions. These exercises are chosen because they closely mimic everyday movements like climbing and descending stairs. Participants randomized to the delayed-exercise subgroup will continue with usual activity and medical care for the first 8 weeks, serving as a comparison group. After this waiting period, the delayed group will then be offered the same flywheel training protocol.

Location