Knee joint osteoarthritis (OA) is a common condition affecting the population. This can be a major cause of pain, resulting in reduced function, mobility and independence.
Knee joint osteoarthritis is typically characterised by gradual wear and tear of the joint lining, resulting in the breakdown of the knee’s articular cartilage.
Exercise is thought to be the best first-line treatment for osteoarthritis, aiding mobility and preserving function. However, some people with osteoarthritis are afraid to exercise, worrying that their knees won’t cope or that their joints will go through further breakdown. Recently, a systematic review of all the current literature regarding knee osteoarthritis has proven this point:
- Exercises that load the knee joint do not have any further negative effects on articular cartilage breakdown.
Furthermore, some studies suggest that people who have had a long history of weight bearing exercise can have increased thickness of articular cartilage in the knee, with improved load bearing capacity as a result.
This information further strengthens the case for exercise as a first-choice treatment mode for Knee osteoarthritis. If you are worried about exercising with Knee osteoarthritis, our Physiotherapists or Accredited Exercise Physiologists at MD Health can help guide you through a tailored Clinical Exercise program specific to your goals and needs.
Want to know more?
If you want more information regarding this article or would like to book for a FREE full body assessment with one of our Physiotherapists or Exercise Physiologists, call us on 9857 0644 or email us at admin@md-health.com.au
