Assessment of effect of cognitive task on postural control in female patients with knee osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems that can affect activity daily living of patients. Many studies have indicated postural control deficits in these patients; but the effect of dual tasking on postural control has not been examined yet. The aim of this study is to investigat the effect of cognitive task on postural control in the female patients with knee osteoarthritis. Postural stability in knee OA patients and healthy subjects (20 subjects in each group) in four positions was measured using the Force plate. Positions included double leg stance with closed or opened eyes with and without cognitive task. Area of COP and mean velocity (Vm) were measured for as static postural stability. Area under the curve increased in the double leg stance position in the patients significantly (P<0. 05). While mean velocity decreased by performing a dual task (P<0. 05). The response to dual-tasking was not significant between the 2 groups (P>0. 05). Postural control deficits and increased of center of pressure’s sway were identified in participants with Knee osteoarthritis. Also performance of a cognitive task resulted in decrease of postural sway، but the dual- tasking did not change the postural performance of knee OA patients compared to healthy subjects.