Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease where the protective cartilage in the knee wears down over time. This leads to symptoms like pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. It’s the most common form of arthritis, especially in older adults, and a major cause of disability worldwide.
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing knee OA by reducing pain, improving joint mobility, and enhancing muscle strength through targeted exercises, manual therapy, and electrotherapy. By combining these approaches, physiotherapy significantly improves function and quality of life for individuals with knee OA.
Why Physiotherapy Matters for Knee OA
Physiotherapy is more than just exercise. It’s a structured approach tailored to your specific needs, with a focus on restoring joint function, reducing pain, and preventing further damage.
Evidence shows that physiotherapy is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for knee OA. In fact, it’s often recommended as a first-line treatment before medications or surgery.
How Physiotherapy Helps with Knee OA
- Strengthening Muscles Around the Knee
Weak muscles—especially in the quadriceps and hip abductors—can increase stress on the knee joint. Physiotherapists guide you through targeted exercises that build strength, helping to offload pressure from the knee.
Stronger muscles = less stress on the joint.
Studies show that strengthening exercises significantly reduce knee pain and improve physical function.
- Improving Flexibility and Range of Motion
OA can lead to stiffness and reduced range of motion. Stretching and mobility exercises prescribed by your physiotherapist help keep the joint moving freely. Techniques like passive stretching or manual therapy can also be included to enhance flexibility.
- Correcting Movement Patterns
Physiotherapists assess your gait and biomechanics to correct faulty movements that may worsen OA symptoms. This might include retraining how you walk, climb stairs, or get out of a chair. Custom orthotics or knee braces may also be recommended to reduce joint load during daily activities.
- Aerobic Conditioning
Low-impact cardio such as walking, cycling, or swimming improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and aids in weight control—all of which benefit knee OA. Physiotherapists can help you find the right balance to stay active without aggravating symptoms.
- Pain Management Techniques
Many physios use adjunct treatments like:
- TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
- Manual therapy
- Cold and heat therapy
- Taping techniques
These can help manage pain during flare-ups and allow more effective exercise participation (5)
What to Expect from a Physiotherapy Program
A typical physiotherapy plan for knee OA is personalized, but may include:
- Initial assessment of joint range, strength, and pain levels
- A structured home exercise program
- In-clinic sessions 1–2 times per week
- Regular progress assessments
Duration varies, but improvements are often seen within 6–8 weeks of consistent therapy (2).
When to See a Physiotherapist
You should consult a physiotherapist if:
- Knee pain affects your daily activities
- You notice swelling or stiffness that doesn’t go away
- Your knee gives way, locks, or feels unstable
- You’re recovering from a knee injury or surgery
Early intervention can prevent worsening symptoms and help avoid surgery down the line.
The final word
Knee osteoarthritis doesn’t have to mean giving up your active lifestyle. With a proper physiotherapy plan, you can manage pain, improve function, and regain confidence in your knee. If you’re dealing with knee OA, speak to your doctor or book an appointment with a licensed physiotherapist—it’s one of the best steps you can take.