In a report from Healio, experts weighed the adverse effects of the false—but common—perception that physical activities causing pain may exacerbate osteoarthritis. A study from 2022 published by Nissen et al in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage found that physicians may lack an understanding of which exercises are appropriate for these patients and could be perpetuating misconceptions. The experts explained that many physicians either recommend that patients avoid physical activity, or caution them not to overload their joints—which can confuse and potentially discourage patients from exercising without additional clarity. Inactivity has been shown to impact overall health and potentially worsen the severity of osteoarthritis. The experts advised physicians to address any patient concerns or fears regarding exercise and tailor their recommendations to each patient’s exercise experience level as well as activity and pain thresholds. Physicians should also consider the language they use when discussing current exercise guidelines and communicating with their patients about how physical activity intersects with pain. Although patients may experience more pain when they are initially active than when they are inactive, it may not be an indication that damage is being done to the joints.
The experts highlighted that exercise therapy has recently become the preferred first-line therapy in patients with osteoarthritis—replacing the outdated notion that the condition is caused by wear and tear and inevitably leads to joint replacement. Instead, exercise therapy has been proven to reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and reduce pain over time. “One thing that most … surgeons will tell you is that [patients] who maintain flexibility, strength, and cardiorespiratory status tend to keep their natural joints longer than those who are more sedentary,” the experts concluded.