Exercise can reduce the risk for osteoarthritis by aiding in the prevention of
obesity, joint instability, and muscle weakness. It can also serve as an effective
treatment by helping patients manage weight, improve muscular strength, decrease
joint stiffness, improve range of motion, increase functionality, and reduce the risk for
falls. Before starting an exercise program, patients should obtain a physician’s consent
and complete a thorough fitness assessment with an exercise specialist. The exercise
program should be progressive, beginning with low-to-moderate intensity exercises
followed by gradual increases in intensity. Low impact aerobic training and isometric
or isotonic strength training are recommended modes of exercise for effective
management of osteoarthritis symptoms. Yoga and tai chi provide low impact exercises
and are considered effective therapy options for osteoarthritis symptom management.
In addition, water-based exercise programs may improve adherence to an exercise
program and be equally effective as land-based exercise for improving gait,
functionality and pain. Since exercise adherence is the primary predictor of long-term
outcomes in osteoarthritic patients, strategies to improve exercise adherence should be
implemented.
Keywords: Aerobic, Exercise, Exercise adherence, Exercise prescription, Fall
risk, Flexibility, Functionality, Isometric, Isotonic, Joint pain, Joint stiffness,
Older adult, Osteoarthritis, Prevention, Strength, Tai chi, Treatment, Water
exercise, Weight management, Yoga.
