FEATURE: EXERCISE IN KNEE OA EXERCISE IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS general practice database tells us that characteristics to improve outcomes. For Following our first long discussion about less than 4 percent of people with knee instance, a previous study suggests that pain and exercise, Helen started with osteoarthritis seeking care are referred people with a varus thrust would benefit some exercises at home, and then for support to hepthe exercise. They from neuromuscular exercise therapy in completed a 6-week supervised group are more commonly encouraged to take terms of pain relief, while obese people exercise program with a physiotherapist. pain killers, which do not help in the would see pain relief from quadriceps With improved confidence, she joined long-term, or are referred to a surgeon. strengthening exercise therapy. a gym and started to regain her life. She Frequently, people then end up less has been exercising at least two-three active, become depressed, put on weight Starting with at least 12 supervised times per week since this time. One of and increase their risk of other chronic exercise therapy sessions of the things she was enjoying most was diseases like heart disease and diabetes. 30-60-minutes in duration, seems to playing one-on-one basketball against Exercise and regular physical activity is be important for the clinical effect, while her son again. Her smile as she told me essential for osteoarthritis, and also the extending the program to adhere to the this was incredibly uplifting and why key to treating these conditions. exercise prescription recommendations I love what I do. for adults from the American College WHERE IS HELEN NOW? of Sports Medicine has the potential to improve the outcome further. Exercise I talked to Helen two weeks ago, about therapy should preferably be supported ABOUT THE AUTHOR a year on from when I first saw her. by patient education to guide patients Dr Christian Barton That morning she had completed leg in the management of their own disease specialises in the strengthening exercises, jumping and and ensure long-term motivation and management of difficult hopping exercises, and a 1.5km run. adherence; a key parameter to sustain to treat, long-term injuries Her journey had not been easy. long-term effects. To reassure patients, that occur as a result of sports it is important to highlight that the or general activities. He has There is no universal exercise therapy radiographic severity and baseline pain a particular interest in the knee and program that will give all people with hip is not associated with the improvements running-related injuries. Research and knee osteoarthritis the same clinical in pain that the patient can expect is one of Dr Barton’s passions, and effect. Instead, programs need to be following exercise therapy. he also enjoys hosting workshops individualised based on patient and professional education courses for health professionals in Australia and around the world. 32 VOLUME 36 • ISSUE 2 2018 kazbukaj/segamiytteg