Exercises for knee osteoarthritis

Exercises for knee osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis

The best exercises in case of knee osteoarthritis are those that strengthen the muscles on the front of the thigh, and also the side and inner part, because this way the muscles become strong and reduce the overload on the knees.

The exercises must be performed every day, with repetition sets of 3 x 20. That is, each exercise must be performed 20 times and then there is 15 seconds of rest. Then you must perform 2 more series similar to this one.

Osteoarthritis is a degeneration of the joint that causes pain and discomfort, and although there is no cure, there can be a great improvement in symptoms with physiotherapy, in addition to the medications recommended by the doctor. Other measures that can help with the success of the treatment are modifications in daily life such as losing weight, avoiding exertion, preferring to wear sneakers or very comfortable shoes rather than walking in flip-flops or barefoot, for example. Find out more about knee osteoarthritis.

Pilates Exercises

Pilates exercises for knee osteoarthritis must be guided by a physiotherapist with specific knowledge of the technique. There are several Pilates exercises that can be used to treat osteoarthritis and their application will depend on the degree of the injury and the symptoms presented by the individual.

One Pilates exercise option is to raise the torso supported on the ball, in which with the feet supported on the ball, the person must raise the hips and torso as much as possible. This movement helps to strengthen the muscles in the leg and those located around the knee, ensuring greater stability and helping to alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis, in addition to improving mobility.

Aerobic exercises

Low-impact aerobic exercises such as light walking with appropriate tennis shoes, hydrotherapy or water aerobics can also be performed to help strengthen the knee and alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis, however it is important that they are guided by a doctor or physiotherapy, as There may be variations depending on the severity of the injury presented.

Bodybuilding exercises

Strength training exercises are great for treating knee osteoarthritis, as they help to strengthen the leg muscles, increase bone density and reduce pain. It is important to strengthen the muscles that form the quadriceps in the case of osteoarthritis in the knee, as they control the impact of the foot on the ground, reducing degeneration of the knee joint and reducing the need for surgery. Squats and leg extensions may be recommended. leg, for example.

However, it is essential that there is authorization from the doctor and guidance from the physiotherapist or physical education professional, as this makes it possible to ensure that the movements are being carried out correctly and that there is no risk of worsening osteoarthritis. Discover other exercises to strengthen the knee.

What is not recommended

Not every type of physical activity is recommended for those with knee osteoarthritis, some examples that are not recommended are running, jumping, stepping and martial arts, for example, as they can have a major impact on the knees, potentially increasing the injury, aggravating the disease and increasing the need for surgery.

In addition to exercise, to control knee pain and improve a person’s quality of life, it is necessary to invest in other forms of treatments, which include nutrition, use of medicines and alternative therapies, for example. See more details on the treatment for osteoarthritis.