[Rehabilitation for osteoarthritis]

Osteoarthritis (OA) limits activities of daily living due to symptoms such as pain, joint contracture and muscle weakness, and impairs the quality of life. As one of the rehabilitative approaches, physical therapy is important to decrease disability associated with OA and prevent progression of the disease. Previous studies have reported muscle- strengthening exercises as particularly effective. However, some authors have emphasized the importance of neuromuscular coordination training to improve postural control in addition to increasing muscular strength. Furthermore, both generalized exercise for weight control and education of patients to avoid overloading the affected joints are important.