Physical Therapy Is Beneficial in Knee Osteoarthritis

Thrice-weekly exercise focused on quadriceps strengthening is a useful adjunct for OA patients.

Patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) can be offered arthroscopy, medications, physical therapy (PT), or other treatment modalities. However, several randomized trials have suggested that arthroscopic interventions do not benefit most patients with knee OA (NEJM JW Gen Med Sep 16 2008 and NEJM JW Gen Med Jul 16 2002). In another study, PT was as effective as arthroscopy for meniscal tears in patients with OA (NEJM JW Gen Med Mar 28 2013). PT alone alleviates pain for many patients, but the optimal regimen is unknown.

To evaluate various PT regimens for patients with knee OA, researchers evaluated 48 trials in which PT was compared with non-exercise control interventions. The most efficacious PT programs provided aerobic, resistance, or perf…

Reviewing Author

Jonathan S. Coblyn, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory BoardCVS Health

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Jonathan S. Coblyn, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory BoardCVS Health

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Physical Therapy Is Beneficial in Knee Osteoarthritis

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Reviewing Author