Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of disability in older adults and can severely impact quality of life. Obesity is a major risk factor for development of OA as the extra weight increases the load on the joint.
Approximately, 80% of affected individuals have some degree of movement limitation, while 25% are unable to perform major activities of daily living. Often a ‘go to’ treatment recommendation from health professionals for people with OA is to ‘lose weight’ – which is far easier said than done but a a 10% reduction in weight has shown a 50% reduction in knee pain.
So while losing weight is a daunting prospect it can have a huge impact on level of pain and quality of life.
The most effective way to achieve weight reduction in this study was a combination of diet and exercise, when compared with diet or exercise changes alone.
Diet changes involved a 800-1000 kcal/day deficit and exercise consisted of 1 hour, 3 times a week and incorporated aerobic and strength training exercises. This program was continued for 18 months.
To kick start your journey Enhance Physiotherapy now offers the GLA:D Program – an exercise and education program as a first line treatment for anyone with hip and knee osteoarthritis.
To get more information contact the clinic on (02) 6041 3609
