to address this gap, we aim to synthesize current literature informing the implementation of therapeutic exercise for people with knee and hip osteoarthritis.Methods: Narrative review focusing on evidence from systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials.Results: Therapeutic exercise is safe for people with knee and hip osteoarthritis. Numerous types of therapeutic exercise (including aerobic, strengthening, neuromuscular, mind-body exercise) may be utilised at varying doses and in different settings to improve pain and function. Benefits from therapeutic exercise appear greater when dosage recommendations from general exercise guidelines for healthy adults are met. However, interim therapeutic exercise goals may also be useful, given that many barriers to achieving these dosages exist among this patient group.Theoretically-informed strategies to improve adherence to therapeutic exercise, such as patient education, goal setting, monitoring and feedback, may help maintain participation and optimise clinical benefits over the longer-term. Sedentary behaviour is also a risk factor for disability and lower quality of life in people with knee and hip osteoarthritis, although limited evidence exists regarding how best to reduce this behaviour.
Conclusion:Current evidence can be used to inform how to implement best practice therapeutic exercise, at a sufficient and appropriate dose, for people with knee and hip osteoarthritis.
Significance and Innovations.1. Therapeutic exercise is safe for people with knee and hip osteoarthritis, and contrary to the common lay belief, does not lead to further joint damage.2. Numerous types of therapeutic exercise (including aerobic, strength, neuromuscular and mind-body exercise) can be performed at varying dosages and in different settings, to improve pain and function in people with knee and hip osteoarthritis.