Exercises for osteoarthritis

Why movement should not be avoided automatically

The fear that every movement wears out the joint may lead to reduced activity and physical capacity. Adapted exercise aims to break this cycle. It does not promise to rebuild cartilage, but it can improve walking, rising from a chair and the ability to do daily tasks.

At first there may be a temporary increase in discomfort. This does not automatically mean new damage, but it calls for assessment of intensity and progress. Severe pain, increased edema (swelling) or limitation that persists after activity should be discussed to adapt the program.

What is assessed before starting

The physiotherapist examines the affected joints, range of motion, strength, balance and difficulties in daily life. The doctor assesses whether the symptoms match osteoarthritis or whether there is reason for another diagnosis. Heart disease, balance problems and previous operations influence the choice of exercises.

An X-ray is not needed to decide every change in the program. Pain and function do not always match the importance of radiological changes. Decisions are based on your condition and the goals of treatment.

Components of a program

Strengthening the muscles around the joint helps support and control of movement. Mobility exercises aim to preserve useful range. Aerobic activity, such as adapted walking or a stationary bike when tolerated, helps general endurance.

Balance work may be added when there is instability or a risk of falling. The program must be feasible between sessions. A small set of suitable exercises, done regularly and progressed carefully, may be more useful than many exercises without a plan.

Examples for the knee and hip

According to the assessment, they may include activating the quadriceps, the muscle at the front of the thigh, controlled straightening of the knee when sitting, or rising from a stable chair. For the hip, work may be done on the lateral muscles and pelvic control. Hand support, chair height and resistance vary according to ability.

These are examples of types of exercise, not an identical scheme for everyone. If you have a replacement, a recent fracture or surgical restrictions, the general osteoarthritis program does not apply without adaptation. Do not force the joint into severe pain.

How activity progresses

Start at a tolerable level and gradually increase the duration, repetitions or resistance according to the plan. Days with more symptoms may call for reducing the load and keeping easier movements. Stopping all activity completely is not always the most helpful solution.

Progress is measured with concrete tasks, such as walking distance, stairs or rising from a chair. If you are overweight, weight loss supported by the doctor may complement exercise. Medicines or walking aids may be needed to make activity possible, with individual assessment.

Frequently asked questions

Does exercise damage the affected joint? Adapted exercise does not speed the worsening of osteoarthritis and it helps strength, movement and function. Excessive or unsuitable activity may temporarily increase discomfort, so the load is increased gradually and adapted to tolerance.

How many times a week should I exercise? The plan is set according to ability, but it usually includes regular activity through the week, with strengthening several times a week and tolerable aerobic activity. Regularity matters more than high intensity in short periods.

What should I do on days with more pain? Reduce the load, keep the easier movements and do not stop activity completely. If severe pain continues or comes with increased swelling, tell the clinician at the check-up so that the program can be adapted.

Does weight loss help? In people who are overweight, weight loss reduces load on the knee and hip and may complement exercise. It is done with the doctor’s support and does not replace the activity program.

When assessment for another cause is needed

A joint that is very hot, red and swollen, especially with fever, requires urgent assessment. Sudden severe pain or a new inability to bear weight on the limb should not automatically be attributed to osteoarthritis.

Care at Tirana Polyclinic: We offer physiotherapy and orthopedic or rheumatology consultation as needed. The exercise program is adapted to the affected joint, accompanying illnesses and your goals, with guidance for continuing at home.