The implicit assumption that all three groups would benefit from their assigned interventions can be considered a shortcoming in the study. The exercise need not be complex or overly physically demanding and can be performed at home. Nevertheless, prescribing supervised or home-based, aerobic or resistance exercises is a reasonable addition to primary care management of this disabling condition. Such exercise does not appear to accelerate progression of arthritis in the short term. To increase compliance with the exercise plan, physicians should become familiar with local seniors' exercise programs in order to refer patients appropriately.
Weight loss reduces the risk for symptomatic knee osteoarthritis in women.
The Framingham Study. Supervised fitness walking in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. A randomized controlled trial. Efficacy of physical conditioning exercise in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Effects of a muscle exercise program on exercise capacity in subjects with osteoarthritis.