Strength and Aerobic Exercise for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis Symptoms

Background: Arthritis is a prevalent joint disease characterized by joint inflammation. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis which causes progressive cartilage breakdown at the ends of bones and may affect surrounding ligaments, menisci and muscles. Osteoarthritis puts individuals at an increased risk of developing comorbid conditions. The use of exercise is growing as a low-risk treatment for symptoms of osteoarthritis. Purpose: The purpose of this narrative review is to examine how strength and aerobic exercise interventions can be used for the management of osteoarthritis symptoms. Methodology: A literature search was conducted utilizing PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, and UBC Library. Selected literature included quasi-experimental studies, randomized-controlled trials, systematic reviews, narrative reviews, and exercise guidelines. Results: The literature indicates that strength exercise is beneficial to symptom management and physical function among individuals with osteoarthritis. Research specific to quadriceps strengthening showed significant improvements in physical performance, walking self-efficacy, and pain. While aerobic exercise plays a vital role in overall well-being, it also is shown to be as effective as strength exercise for symptom management and physical function. Conclusion: Evidence suggests that strength and aerobic exercise can enhance the quality of life among individuals with osteoarthritis. Greater dissemination of evidence is needed to increase awareness of strength and aerobic exercise as a valuable treatment option for osteoarthritis. Further research is required to determine optimal exercise parameters prescribed for individuals with osteoarthritis. Health & Fitness Journal of Canada 2019;XXX(X):X-XX. https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.XXX.XXX Keywords: Physical Activity, Quadricep Strengthening, Exercise Prescription, Randomized-Controlled Trial, Systematic Review, Medications