Perturbation-based balance training vs progressive neuromuscular training alongside standard physiotherapy for knee osteoarthritis
Official title: Perturbation Based Balance Training Versus Progressive Neuromuscular Training as an Adjunct to Conventional Physiotherapy for Pain Reduction and Functional Improvement in Knee Osteoarthritis
Run by Ibadat International University, Islamabad · NCT07653841 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial tests whether perturbation-based balance training adds benefit over progressive neuromuscular training when used with usual physiotherapy for people with knee osteoarthritis and chronic knee pain.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 40 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Ibadat International University, Islamabad Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Islamabad, ICT) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 18, 2026 |
| Main results expected | September 15, 2026 |
| Study ends | September 20, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | June 17, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07653841 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 40–70 with clinically and radiographically confirmed knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence grades I–III) experiencing chronic knee pain and able to walk independently.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with grade IV OA, prior knee surgery, inflammatory joint diseases, recent intra-articular injections, or other exclusionary medical conditions may not experience benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized trial compares two adjunct training approaches added to conventional physiotherapy for knee osteoarthritis. Participants aged 40–70 with Kellgren-Lawrence grades I–III and at least 3 months of knee pain are randomized to receive either perturbation-based balance training or progressive neuromuscular training, in addition to standard physiotherapy. The goal is to see which approach better reduces pain and improves function. The study excludes those with grade IV OA, prior knee surgery, inflammatory joint diseases, or certain medical conditions that could affect participation. The lead sponsor is Ibadat International University, Islamabad, with the Institute of Medical Rehabilitation in Islamabad serving as the site.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the chosen training could offer improved pain relief and functional gains for people with knee osteoarthritis when added to standard therapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in balance and neuromuscular training for OA has shown promise, but direct head-to-head comparisons with perturbation-based balance training are less established, making this study relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Male and female, aged between 40-70 years Diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis Grades I-III based on the Kellgren-Lawrence classification Chronic knee pain for ≥3 months Ability to walk independently Exclusion Criteria: Grade IV osteoarthritis Previous knee surgery or joint replacement Rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory joint disease Recent intra-articular injection (\<6 months) Severe systemic illness, Neurological disorders and Vestibular disorders
Where it's running
-
Institute of Medical Rehabilitation (IMR)
Islamabad, Ict, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Rashid Nawaz, DPT, MSPT MSK
- Email: nawazrashid158@gmail.com
- Phone: +923160534195
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.