physiotherapy in osteoarthritis

Last reviewed 01/2018

Physiotherapy:

  • increases muscle strength
  • improves the range of motion of the affected joints

However, there is little research on its benefits.

A 12-week trial revealed that the physiotherapy programme tested was no more effective than regular contact with a therapist at reducing pain and disability (2)

Reference:

  1. Lancet 1993; 341:353-4
  2. Bennell KL et al. Efficacy of physiotherapy management of knee joint osteoarthritis: a randomised, double blind, placebo controlled trial. Ann Rheum Dis 2005;64:906-12

Related pages:

osteoarthritis