The Efficacy of Closed Versus Open Kinetic Chain Exercise in Knee Osteoarthritis-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The evidence was rated as low certainty for pain and function, and very low certainty for quality of life. All studies had a high risk of bias because neither patients nor therapists could be blinded to the type of exercise being performed. Only short-term outcomes (up to 13 weeks) were measured, so it is unknown if these small benefits persist or if one type of exercise is better in the long run. The studies varied widely in their definitions of knee osteoarthritis and in the specific exercises and dosages prescribed, making it difficult to pinpoint exactly which protocol works best. The participants were mostly older adults (mean ages 53-66), so the results may not apply to younger people with knee osteoarthritis.

The authors declared no conflicts of interest.

Do not assume that closed kinetic chain exercises are significantly better than open kinetic chain exercises. The statistical difference was small, and the evidence was of low certainty, meaning the actual benefit in a real-world clinic might be negligible or non-existent.