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Effects of Aquatic Therapy on Osteoarthritis

In this study, physical therapists from Australia compare two groups of adults with hip or knee osteoarthritis (OA). All participants were at least 50 years or older and had pain, difficulty climbing stairs, and trouble getting in and out of the car. Everyone was assessed before and after treatment.

One group received twice weekly hour-long sessions of aquatic physical therapy for six weeks. An experienced aquatic physical therapist instructed each class. Special attention was paid to posture, muscle contraction, and trunk control.

The second (control) group did not have any pool therapy for the first six weeks. They were offered this option after the study was over. This group was advised to continue their usual daily routines for six weeks. They were asked not to begin any new exercise program or other treatment for OA during this time.

After six weeks, the groups were examined again. Pain on movement, physical function and activity, balance, and muscle strength were measured. Quality of life was also assessed. The difference in results between the two groups was striking.

Three-fourths (75 per cent) of the aquatic group reported improvements. Only 17 per cent of the control group had similar improvements. Pain was reduced and function improved by 33 per cent in the aquatic group. Hip muscle strength and quality of life were also greatly improved in the aquatics group.

The aquatic group was 12 times more likely to report overall improvements compared to the control group. Many of the participants in this group continued with the pool program on their own after the study was over.

References: Rana S. Hinman, PT, PhD et al. Aquatic Physical Therapy for Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis: Results of a Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial. In Physical Therapy. January 2007. Vol. 87. No. 1. Pp. 32-43.

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