The Effects of the BeHaS Exercise Program on Balance and Walking Ability in Middle-aged Women with Knee Osteoarthritis

Kim, Sun Ae; Kim, Jong Im

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of the BeHaS exercise program on balance and walking ability in middle-aged women with knee osteoarthritis. METHOD: Participants were 36 patients (experimental group: 18, control group: 18) with knee osteoarthritis. Women with knee osteoarthritis in the experimental group participated in the BeHaS exercise program for 65 to 90 minutes per session twice a week for 12 weeks. Data were collected by a structured interview and measurement tool from September 1, 2005 to March 30, 2006. Descriptive statistics, such as frequency, percentages, means, SD and t-test, Chi square test were used with the SPSS Win 12.0 to analyze the data.
RESULTS
There was a significant difference between the two groups for dynamic balance, but differences in balance and walking ability were only partially supported.
CONCLUSION
These findings indicate that the BeHaS exercise program could be a good nursing intervention for health maintenance and promotion of patients with knee osteoarthritis. Further research is needed in order to confirm these findings in elderly people with osteoarthritis.