Exercise as a Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, particularly in the knee, is a common issue affecting a significant number of people over the age of 45. Physical activity is an essential part of treatment, as studies have shown that exercise plays a crucial role in alleviating pain and improving the body’s functional performance. In this article, we will review the results of a comprehensive study that analyzed the effectiveness of different types of exercises in treating knee osteoarthritis.

Benefits of Aerobic Exercises

The study indicated that aerobic exercises should remain the foundation in treating osteoarthritis. These exercises include activities that increase heart rate and breathing, such as brisk walking, swimming, and cycling. The study’s results show that aerobic exercises are effective in reducing pain in the short and medium term, and they improve functional performance and quality of life in the long term.

The effectiveness of aerobic exercises was evaluated using the internationally recognized GRADE system, where moderate-certainty evidence showed these exercises to be effective compared to control groups. Aerobic exercises are recommended as the first choice in managing osteoarthritis, especially for improving functional ability and reducing pain.

Alternative Exercises and Diverse Benefits

In addition to aerobic exercises, the study analyzed the effectiveness of other types of exercises such as mind-body exercises, neuromotor exercises, and mixed exercise programs. The evidence shows that mind-body exercises improve functional performance in the short term, while neuromotor exercises enhance walking performance.

These types of exercises are a good alternative for individuals who cannot perform aerobic exercises due to personal or health constraints. Mixed exercises, which combine different types of exercises, can also be effective in improving functional performance in the medium term.

Safety and Additional Considerations

An important point highlighted by the study is that all types of exercises analyzed were safe and did not increase the risk of adverse events compared to control groups. This means that exercises are not only effective but also safe for long-term use.

However, the researchers acknowledged some limitations in the studies, such as reliance on indirect comparisons and a lack of long-term data for some outcomes. The small size of some studies might affect initial results, necessitating further research to confirm these findings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, exercises, especially aerobic exercises, are an effective and safe tool in managing knee osteoarthritis. They are recommended as a first step to improve functional performance and reduce pain. Despite some limitations in the studies, the results provide strong evidence that doctors can rely on to offer targeted recommendations to patients. If aerobic exercises are not possible, alternatives such as mind-body or mixed exercises can also offer significant benefits.