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Osteoarthritis and Exercise

Sarah B. King, BA, SPT
Marian A. Minor, PT, PhD

Overview

This case presents a woman with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knees. This case discusses the clinical presentation of OA as well as treatment and the importance of exercise for persons with OA. The case will also help the reader understand the feasibility of exercise for persons with OA and will discuss exercise recommendations.

This case is for physical therapists, occupational therapists, physicians, nurses, psychologists, nutritionists, respiratory therapists, and those in similar areas.

Objectives

• What is osteoarthritis?
• What are the three main forms of exercise?
• What is physical fitness?
• What evidence is there for the benefits of exercise for OA?
• Recommendations for exercise for persons with OA.