Document Type : Original article
Authors
1
1. MSc, Department of Sport Injuries and Corrective Exercise, School of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran.
2
Associated Professor, Department of Sport Injuries and Corrective Exercise, School of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran
10.22037/sjrm.2025.117501.3401
Abstract
Background and Aims: Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common joint disorders in elderly women, leading to pain, reduced mobility, and a lower quality of life. This study aimed to compare the effects of combined yoga–massage exercises and Tai Chi on pain, function, range of motion, and quality of life in women with knee osteoarthritis.
Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of women aged 45–65 years. Based on inclusion criteria and with the supervision and diagnosis of an orthopedic specialist, 45 participants were purposefully selected. They were then randomly assigned to three groups: combined yoga–massage protocol (n=15), Tai Chi group (n=15), and control group (n=15). The control group did not participate in any training and continued their daily activities. After completing informed consent, pre-tests were conducted to assess pain and function using the WOMAC questionnaire, range of motion using a goniometer, and quality of life using the KOOS questionnaire. The yoga–massage and Tai Chi protocols were performed for eight weeks, three sessions per week. Data were analyzed using a mixed ANCOVA with a significance level of α≤0.05.
Results: The findings indicated that the combined yoga–massage protocol significantly improved pain, function, range of motion, and quality of life (p≤0.05) in women with knee osteoarthritis compared to the Tai Chi and control groups in the post-test.
Conclusion: Both yoga–massage and Tai Chi exercises reduced pain, enhanced function, increased range of motion, and improved quality of life in elderly women with knee osteoarthritis compared to the control group; however, yoga–massage exercises were more effective than Tai Chi in these outcomes.
Keywords: Massage, Yoga, Pain, Tai chi, Knee Osteoarthritis
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