Effects of whole-body vibration training with quadriceps strengthening exercise on functioning and gait parameters in patients with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis: a randomised controlled preliminary study

39 patients with medial compartment knee OA were randomized to either whole-body vibration training in combination with quadriceps strengthening exercise (WBVT+QSE) or quadriceps strengthening exercise alone (QSE-only). The objective of the study was to determine whether combination therapy provides superior results compared to monotherapy over a 3-month treatment period. Findings indicated that both groups showed significant improvements compared to baseline in VAS, WOMAC scores, timed up and go (TUG) test, the 6-minute walk distance (6MWD), and spatiotemporal parameters. WOMAC physical function scores, the timed up and go (TUG) test, and the 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) test were significantly better in the WVBT+QSE group compared to the QSE-only group at 12 weeks. No significant differences were reported at 16-weeks follow-up.