The results of a new study that compared both high and low dose exercise in 189 people with knee osteoarthritis showed improvements on a standard scale measuring knee osteoarthrosis pain and function at three, six and 12 months. 

Calling the new study results "music to any physical therapist's ears," Fitzgerald pointed out that participants showed meaningful improvements in knee symptoms and that adherence to their program was excellent across both groups.

This is at least partially due to the fact that exercise was prescribed on a minimal/no pain basis, Fitzgerald said. "Regardless of the exercise dosage, when we are capable of prescribing exercise within pain-free limits, there is more hope that patients will respond well to the treatment," he explained.

"If you are prescribing exercises for these patients with their best interest in mind, the program should be specific to the likes and goals of the patient keeping in mind loading principles to manage pain," Fitzgerald added.

Read the full article at dailyjournalonline.com.