Introduction
pain, KOA, chronic degenerative disease, Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, Knee osteoarthritis
KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS
Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a chronic degenerative disease caused by the deleterious effects of inflammatory mediators on cartilage, bone, and synovium [Stepping over obstacles is a challenging daily activity for older adults. The joint loading of the lower extremities during stepping over obstacles is greater than during level walking, which may increase pain [Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching may be a preferred intervention for KOA rehabilitation. PNF stretching was more effective than traditional stretching for pain relief [In summary, PNF has the potentials to relieve pain, balance loading at the knee, and improve gait patterns during stepping over obstacles. However, to our best knowledge, no previous studies were yet conducted. This study hypothesized that 1. PNF stretching could decrease pain score and KAM. 2. PNF stretching could improve gait patterns (e.g., increase crossing velocity and step length) during stepping over obstacles among older adults with KOA.