Athletic injuries are commonly implicated in the development of early osteoarthritic (EOA) changes in the knee. These changes have a significant impact on athletic performance, and therefore the early detection of EOA is paramount. The objective of the study is to assess the impact of different interventions on individuals with EOA, particularly focusing on recreational athletes. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of three treatment groups in improving various aspects related to knee EOA, including pain, range of motion, strength, and function. A study was undertaken with 48 recreational athletes with EOA who were assigned to one of three groups by the referring orthopedic surgeon: collagen (Col), exercise (Ex), or collagen and exercise (ColEx) groups. All the participants received their respective group-based intervention for 12 weeks. Visual analog scale (VAS), knee flexion range of motion (ROM) knee flexors and extensors strength, and KOOS were assessed at baseline, and after 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 12 weeks of intervention. VAS for activity improved in all treatment groups, with no difference between groups. The between-group analysis for knee ROM revealed a significant difference (p = 0.022) in the Col vs. Ex group at 12 weeks. The knee flexor and extensor strength and the KOOS scores improved considerably in the Ex and the ColEx group (p < 0.05) at 12 weeks. Exercise therapy improved pain, strength and function in subjects with EOA, whereas the association of collagen seems to have accentuated the effects of exercise in bringing about clinical improvements.

Introduction: KOA is progressively disabling in nature, and developing effective treatment strategies is crucial to impede disease progression. Recent research has explored the role of core muscle exercises in mitigating KOA progression. This study evaluates the effectiveness of integrating core strengthening exercises into standard KOA rehabilitation. The study aims to assess the efficacy of incorporating core strengthening exercises and a routine rehabilitation program for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) over 4 weeks and evaluate its impact on physical function tests, knee muscle strength, and core endurance. Methods: Fifteen participants meeting specific KOA criteria completed a four-week intervention combining conventional rehabilitation and core exercises. Selection criteria included orthopedic diagnosis, incorporating medical history, radiographic imaging, and clinical indicators of KOA. A pre-post analysis was done, wherein a portable dynamometer was used to assess for knee muscle strength and physical function tests (stair climb, 30-second sit-to-stand, 40-meter fast-paced walking, and timed up-and-go), and core endurance was evaluated. Statistical analysis using JAMOVI was done, with a significance level of P < 0.05. Result: Knee muscle strength in the affected knee’s flexors and unaffected knee’s extensors and 30-second sit-to-stand showed no significant difference. In contrast, the timed up-and-go test, stair climb test, 40-second fast-paced walking test, and endurance test showed statistically significant differences. Conclusion: After a four-week supervised exercise program, participants exhibited enhanced core endurance and physical function, showcasing the positive effects of exercise in these domains. However, knee muscle strength did not significantly differ, resulting in the need for longer follow-up studies. The study implies that integrating core exercises into routine KOA rehabilitation can enhance physical function and endurance, emphasizing the need for their inclusion in long-term treatment plans for KOA patients.