Comparing retro-walking and forward-walking on an underwater treadmill for knee osteoarthritis

Effect of Retro-walking Versus Forward-walking Training Using Underwater Treadmill on Pain and Function in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis

Not applicable Interventional Cairo University · NCT06896032

This study is testing whether walking backwards or forwards on an underwater treadmill helps people with knee osteoarthritis feel less pain and move better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages40 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorCairo University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Cairo, Cairo Governorate and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06896032 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of two different walking techniques—retro-walking and forward-walking—using an underwater treadmill on patients suffering from chronic knee osteoarthritis. A total of sixty participants will be recruited and divided into three groups to assess pain, function, and range of motion (ROM) improvements. The study aims to determine which walking method is more effective in alleviating symptoms associated with knee OA. Participants will undergo physical therapy interventions tailored to their assigned group.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 40-60 with mild to moderate unilateral knee osteoarthritis and a BMI between 25-35.

Not a fit: Patients with severe osteoarthritis, systemic inflammatory diseases, or other significant medical conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a new, effective rehabilitation method for patients with knee osteoarthritis, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored, this specific comparison of retro-walking versus forward-walking in an underwater setting is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. 60 patients with chronic knee OA.
2. Age ranges from 40-60 years old of both genders.
3. body mass index (BMI) 25- 35kg/m2.
4. The degree of osteoarthritis was mild or moderate and have a Kellgren- Lawrence radiographic grade of of1-3.
5. unilateral knee osteoarthritis involvement.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. hydrophobia.
2. pregnancy.
3. infection.
4. psychiatric disorder.
5. haemorrhagic diathesis.
6. cardiac pacemaker.
7. all Subjects with deformity of hip, knee \& ankle.
8. any CNS or PNS involvement.
9. recent steroidal or intraarticular injections (3 months).
10. systemic inflammatory disease and bone malignancy.

Where this trial is running

Cairo, Cairo Governorate and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Knee OsteoarthritisOsteoarthritis
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.