Hydrotherapy Intervention in Elderly With Knee Osteoarthritis

8-weeks Hydrotherapy Intervention in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis.

Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition characterized by pain and functional disability in older people. Prevalence increases with age and is more frequent in older women. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of an 8-weeks hydrotherapy training with elastic bands on pain and functional disability in old people with knee osteoarthritis.

The main symptoms of knee osteoarthritis are pain and functional disability. These symptoms are caused by a progressive loss and deterioration of articular cartilage with reactive new bone formation at the joint's surface and margins involving articular cartilage, soft tissues and bone damage. Many treatment programs have been developed, including medication with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical modalities, and therapeutic exercises. It is hypothesized that a hydrotherapy treatment during 8 weeks would benefit patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• confirmed clinical diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis

Exclusion Criteria:

• total knee arthroplasty
• inability to co-operate or follow instructions.
• a major neurological disorder