Effects of pilates exercise on knee osteoarthritis in elderly male athletes

Nowadays, the advantages of participating in physical activities are so well proved that many statements recommend them in preventing chronic diseases such as osteoarthritis. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of Pilates exercises on the knee pain and its symptoms as well as on motor problems associated with daily living activities (ADL), doing sports, recreation activities, and the quality of life among elderly male athletes. The study group consisted of fifteen physical education teachers with mean age (years) 57 ± 6.47, mean height (cm) 176.43 ± 8.49, and mean weight (kg) 76.21 ± 8.81. They all suffered from knee osteoarthritis. The world-known Knee injuries and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score questionnaire was used for data collection. Pilates exercises were carried out under the supervision of a Pilates expert for eight weeks. Obtained data were statistically analyzed through t test at significance level of P ≤ 0.05. No significant difference was observed between pre- and post-test conditions concerning knee pain (P = 0.144) and symptoms (P = 0.367). However, motor functions of daily living (P = 0.001), sport and recreation activities (P = 0.007) and subjects’ quality of life (P = 0.002) were significantly improved subsequent to the termination of the training program. The results showed that Pilates, as a safe and effective exercise method, should be considered in improving motor functions of elderly males with knee osteoarthritis and their quality of lives.