Upper and Lower Extremity Exercise and Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia in Knee Osteoarthritis

STUDY OVERVIEW

This pilot randomized cross-over study conducted by the University of Texas at El Paso, aims to compare the effects of arm exercise (using an arm ergometer) versus leg exercise (using a cycling ergometer) on exercise-induced hypoalgesia (EIH), central pain mechanisms, and knee pain in individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Additionally, the study will investigate how socioeconomic status, racial discrimination, acculturative stress, and autonomic function influence the exercise effects on EIH, central pain mechanisms, and knee pain. All participants will undergo three sessions: baseline assessments (Day 1), and arm or leg exercise (Days 2 and 3).

STUDY GOALS

The goal of this study is to compare the effects of arm versus leg exercise on exercise-induced hypoalgesia, central pain mechanisms, and knee pain in individuals with knee osteoarthritis, while also exploring the influence of socioeconomic status, racial discrimination, acculturative stress, and autonomic function on these exercise effects.

LOCATION

El Paso, Texas: The University of Texas at El Paso

Participants with Knee OA (Target n=40)

INCLUSION CRITERIA

  • Age 45 or older

  • Activity-related knee pain

  • No morning joint stiffness, or stiffness lasting 30 minutes or less

  • Knee pain of at least 4 on a 0-10 pain scale

  • Knee pain as the main complaint if experiencing multiple pains

  • Understands English

exclusion criteria

  • Peripheral neuropathy or sensation loss at measurement sites (wrist, knee, forearm)

  • Use of electrically active medical devices (e.g., pacemaker)

  • Chronic opioid use

  • Pregnant women

  • Serious uncontrolled disease (cardiovascular, nervous system, pulmonary, renal, hepatic, metabolic, hormonal, endocrine, gastrointestinal, or epileptic)

  • Rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, or neurological disorders preventing study procedures

  • Cognitive impairment

  • History of knee replacement surgery

  • Inability to exercise due to severe pain or other symptoms

  • Any knee pain intervention in the last 3 months

Pain-Free Controls (Target n=20)

inclusion criteria

  • No pain-related medical condition

  • Speak and understand English

exclusion criteria

  • Pain episode due to musculoskeletal injury or other cause in the last 3 months

For more information, visit ClinicalTrials.gov.