Article

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of two exercise
programs on lower extremity function in patients with juvenile idiopathic
arthritis. DESIGN: Thirty patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis
participated in this study. Pain, passive range of motion, muscle strength,
balance, and functional abilities were assessed with the Numeric Rating Scale,
goniometer, handheld dynamometer, Flamingo Balance Test, Functional Reach Test,
10-meter walking test, 10-stair climbing test, and Childhood Health Assessment
Questionnaire. Participants were randomly assigned to the strengthening exercise
group (group 1, n = 15) or the proprioceptive-balance exercise group (group 2, n
= 15). RESULTS: Intragroup analysis showed statistically significant improvements
in all outcome measures except muscle strength in the hip and ankle after
strengthening exercises in group 1. However, statistically significant
improvements were found in all outcome measures after the proprioceptive-balance
exercises in group 2. Intergroup analysis showed statistically significant
improvement in all outcome measures in group 2 except for the Numeric Rating
Scale, Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire, and passive range of motion
scores and hip extension and knee flexion muscle strengths. CONCLUSIONS: This
study demonstrates that exercise treatment significantly improves musculoskeletal
symptoms in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. However,
balance-proprioceptive exercises prove to be effective more than strengthening
exercises for improving lower extremity function such as walking, climbing
stairs, and balance in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

Langue : ANGLAIS