Beneficial effects of aquatic exercise were found on physical function .
Water-based exercises are recommended for people with osteoarthritis ( OA ) , due to the beneficial effects on physical function , quality of life and symptom reduction .
However , the effects on muscle strength are still controversial .
The aim of this review was to assess and compare the effects of aquatic exercise programs on muscle strength and physical function in people with OA .
Aquatic Physical Therapy for Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis: Results of a Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Background and Purpose Aquatic physical therapy is frequently used in the management of patients with hip and knee osteoarthritis ( OA ) , yet there is little research establishing its efficacy for this population . The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of aquatic physical therapy on hip or knee OA . Subjects A total of 71 volunteers with symptomatic hip OA or knee OA participated in this study . Methods The study was design ed as a r and omized controlled trial in which participants r and omly received 6 weeks of aquatic physical therapy or no aquatic physical therapy . Outcome measures included pain , physical function , physical activity levels , quality of life , and muscle strength . Results The intervention result ed in less pain and joint stiffness and greater physical function , quality of life , and hip muscle strength . Totals of 72 % and 75 % of participants reported improvements in pain and function , respectively , compared with only 17 % ( each ) of control participants . Benefits were maintained 6 weeks after the completion of physical therapy , with 84 % of participants continuing independently . Discussion and Conclusion Compared with no intervention , a 6-week program of aquatic physical therapy result ed in significantly less pain and improved physical function , strength , and quality of life . It is unclear whether the benefits were attributable to intervention effects or a placebo response
Beneficial effects of aquatic exercise were found on physical function .
Water-based exercises are recommended for people with osteoarthritis ( OA ) , due to the beneficial effects on physical function , quality of life and symptom reduction .
However , the effects on muscle strength are still controversial .
The aim of this review was to assess and compare the effects of aquatic exercise programs on muscle strength and physical function in people with OA .