There is no cure for knee osteoarthritis, but physiotherapy can effectively manage symptoms and significantly improve quality of life. Here's what you should know about how physiotherapy helps this common condition.
Why exercise, not rest, is the answer
It might seem counterintuitive, but exercise is one of the most effective treatments for knee osteoarthritis. Movement helps maintain joint lubrication, strengthens the muscles that support and offload the joint, and can meaningfully reduce pain over time — while prolonged inactivity typically allows symptoms to worsen.
Key benefits of physiotherapy for knee osteoarthritis
- Reduced pain — targeted strengthening and movement can meaningfully ease osteoarthritis pain for many people
- Improved function — better strength and mobility make daily tasks like stairs, walking and getting up from a chair easier
- Slowed symptom progression — while physiotherapy can't reverse joint changes, maintaining strength and healthy movement patterns can help manage the condition's impact over time
- Reduced reliance on pain medication — many people find that consistent exercise reduces their need for pain relief
- Delayed or avoided surgery — for some people, effective conservative management postpones or removes the need for joint replacement
What a treatment program typically includes
Individualised strengthening exercises (particularly for the muscles supporting the knee), guidance on appropriate low-impact aerobic activity, manual therapy to help manage stiffness and pain, education about the condition, and where relevant, advice on weight management, footwear or walking aids.
Managing knee osteoarthritis is ongoing
Because osteoarthritis is a long-term condition, the most successful approach is typically viewing physiotherapy and exercise as an ongoing part of managing your knee health, rather than a short course of treatment — much like managing any other chronic health condition.
If knee osteoarthritis is affecting your life, book an assessment with our team to discuss a tailored management plan.
Written by Aaron Babb, MAppSc Physiotherapy — Founder & Director, Aevum Health & Physiotherapy.