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Adherence to exercise and physical activity is vital

Learn about common reasons people with osteoarthritis do not exercise
Clinical benefits of exercise for knee OA disappear over time if adherence declines or ceases- encouraging people to maintain exercise, and supporting them to do so, is important. Patients with knee OA experience many barriers to exercise and physical activity.23 Some common reasons why people with OA do not engage in exercise and physical activity are:

Lack of knowledge graphic Incorrect beliefs about capability graphic Incorrect beliefs about consequences graphic Environmental and resourcing barriers graphic No intention to exercise graphic

Adherence to exercise and physical activity should be monitored across physiotherapy consultations to:

  • identify patients who have poor or declining adherence
  • work with the patient to identify barriers to adherence
  • troubleshoot strategies to overcome obstacles in order to improve adherence
  • help the patient to believe that exercise is achievable, safe, and likely to benefit, as research shows this can be motivational in older people with knee pain24

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Physiotherapy Exercise and Physical Activity for Knee Osteoarthritis (PEAK)

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