| Background. Osteoarthritis ranks among the top three health care problems in the developed world. It is a leading cause of disability in the elderly population and the relative economic impact of this condition has reached 2.5 percent of the gross national product. Lifestyle changes including nutrition and physical activity are now recommended as the first line of treatment for osteoarthritis. Vitamin A, C, D, and E have shown beneficial effects because of their anti-oxidant capacity and role in the metabolism of bone and cartilage. The American College of Rheumatology recommends moderate intensity exercise as it helps to decrease pain, increase muscle strength and improve physical function. However, the combined impact of dietary and exercise intervention needs to be investigated further.; Methods. A total of 60 subjects were randomly assigned to either the dietary modification only group or the dietary modification/exercise regimen group for a period of three months. They made two visits to the assessment laboratory where anthropometric measurements were taken, five questionnaires were administered, and subjects received relevant counseling.; Results. After three months of intervention, the nutrition and exercise intervention had a significant effect on extension (P = 0.041). There was no difference in flexion from baseline to final in either of the treatments groups or between the treatment groups. The nutrition and exercise intervention in comparison to nutrition alone was also associated with a greater reduction in pain from baseline to follow up (p = 0.02).; Conclusion. In summary, the findings of this study suggest that lifestyle modifications which focus on changes in dietary and exercise behaviors can improve joint mobility via positive changes in the range of motion and pain of the knee afflicted with osteoarthritis. |
