EFFECTIVENESS OF MULLIGAN MOBILIZATION VERSUS CONVENTIONAL PHYSIOTHERAPY IN MANAGEMENT OF KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.
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Keywords
Knee Osteoarthritis, Mulligan Mobilization, Conventional Physiotherapy, Manual Therapy,Mobilization With Movement (MWM),Pain Reduction,Physical Therapy Rehabilitation
Abstract
Background:
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disorder associated with pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and functional limitations. Conventional physiotherapy involving strengthening, stretching, and electrotherapy is widely used for symptom management. In recent years, Mulligan Mobilization with Movement (MWM) has gained attention as a manual therapy technique for improving joint mobility and reducing pain. However, comparative evidence between Mulligan Mobilization and Conventional Physiotherapy in knee OA remains limited
Objective:
To compare the effectiveness of Mulligan Mobilization versus Conventional Physiotherapy in reducing pain, improving function, knee range of motion, and quadriceps strength in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
Methodology:
A total of 30 patients with clinically and radiographically diagnosed knee OA (Kellgren-Lawrence grade II–III) were randomly assigned into two groups: Mulligan Mobilization (n=15) and Conventional Physiotherapy (n=15). Both groups received intervention three times per week for six weeks. Pain intensity (Numeric Pain Rating Scale – NPRS), functional status (WOMAC index), knee flexion range of motion (goniometer), and quadriceps strength (dynamometer) were assessed at baseline and after six weeks. Paired t-tests were applied for within-group analysis and independent t-tests for between-group comparisons.
Results:
Both groups showed statistically significant improvements from baseline to post-intervention in pain (NPRS, p<0.001), function (WOMAC, p<0.001), knee flexion ROM (p<0.001), and quadriceps strength (p<0.001). However, no significant differences were observed between the Mulligan and Conventional groups in post-intervention outcomes (p>0.05).
Conclusion:
Mulligan Mobilization and Conventional Physiotherapy are both effective in reducing pain, enhancing function, improving mobility, and strengthening muscles in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Neither intervention demonstrated clear superiority over the other. These findings highlight that physiotherapists may adopt either approach depending on patient preference and clinical context. Larger trials with long-term follow-up are recommended to establish definitive comparative effectiveness.
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Dr Pawan Sinoria
Assistant Professor Department of Paramedical P.K. University Shivpuri Email id =
