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Got It, Hide thisMat S, Tan MP, Kamaruzzaman SB, et al. Physical therapies for improving balance and reducing falls risk in osteoarthritis of the knee: a systematic review. Age Ageing. 2015;44:16-24.
In people who have knee osteoarthritis, does physical therapy improve balance and reduce risk of falls?
Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis that damages joints, such as the knee, and may cause pain and stiffness. People who have osteoarthritis may have impaired balance and be at greater risk of falling.
It has been suggested that, in addition to weight loss and exercise, physical therapy may improve balance and reduce risk of falls in people who have knee osteoarthritis.
The researchers did a systematic review, based on studies available up to November 2013.
They found 15 randomized controlled trials with 1,482 people (average age more than 60 years).
The key features of the trial were:
Compared with control, strength training, Tai Chi, and aerobic exercise, improved balance.
Compared with control, strength training and aerobic exercise reduced risk of falls.
In people who have knee osteoarthritis, physical therapy improves balance and reduces risk of falls.
Outcomes | Type of physical therapy | Number of trials | Findings* |
Balance | Strength training, Tai Chi, or aerobic exercise | 9 | Medium improvement |
| Strength training | 6 | Small improvement |
| Tai Chi | 2 | Large improvement |
| Aerobic exercises | 1 | Medium improvement |
Risk of falls | Strength training, Tai Chi, or aerobic exercises | 12 | Medium improvement |
| Strength training | 10 | Small improvement |
| Tai Chi | 1 | No improvement |
| Aerobic exercises | 1 | Large improvement |