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Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing knee osteoarthritis (OA) by reducing pain, improving function, and enhancing quality of life. The primary components of physical therapy for knee OA include exercise therapy and patient education.

Exercise Therapy

Exercise therapy is the cornerstone of physical therapy for knee OA. It focuses on:

Strengthening Exercises

  • Quadriceps-specific exercises have shown greater pain reduction compared to general lower-limb exercises
  • Examples include quad sets, straight leg raises, and leg presses

Range of Motion Exercises

  • These improve flexibility and the ability to bend and straighten the knee
  • Heel slides and knee mobility exercises are commonly prescribed

Aerobic Exercise

  • Moderate intensity aerobic exercise for 150 minutes per week is beneficial
  • Low-impact options include swimming, stationary cycling, and walking

Balance and Proprioception Training

  • Exercises like single-leg stands on foam pads help improve joint stability

Mind-Body Exercise

  • Tai Chi and yoga can enhance flexibility, balance, and muscle strength while reducing pain and anxiety

Patient Education

Physical therapists provide education on:

  • Self-management strategies
  • Weight loss for patients with a BMI over 25
  • Activity modification to protect the knee joint
  • Pain coping skills

Treatment Approach

Physical therapists design personalized treatment programs considering:

  • FITT principles (frequency, intensity, type, and time)
  • Patient preferences and access to equipment
  • Gradual progression to avoid exacerbating symptoms

Research shows that a combination of supervised exercises and a home exercise program yields the best results

It’s recommended to perform exercises at least three times per week for optimal benefits

Additional Interventions

Physical therapists may also incorporate:

  • Aquatic exercises, which can be beneficial for reducing pain and improving function
  • Knee bracing to offload the affected compartment of the knee
  • Manual therapy techniques as supplemental treatments

By following a comprehensive physiotherapy program, individuals with knee OA can effectively manage their symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle.

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