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Navigating Knee Osteoarthritis: A Physio-Centric Pathway to Strength and Mobility Before Surgery

Navigating Knee Osteoarthritis: A Physio-Centric Pathway to Strength and Mobility Before Surgery

by | Apr 22, 2025 | Knee, Reformer Pilates

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of chronic pain and mobility restriction in Australians over 45. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, an active grandparent, or someone just trying to keep up with the daily demands of life, OA can slowly erode your confidence in movement — long before X-rays show the full extent of joint degeneration.

At Praxis Physiotherapy, we take a forward-thinking, collaborative approach to managing knee OA. Working closely with renowned orthopaedic knee surgeon Dr. Kelly Macgroarty and drawing from our extensive experience with high-performance athletes and everyday patients alike, we believe the journey toward better knees starts well before surgery — and, for many, might even avoid or delay it altogether.

What is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee OA is a progressive condition involving the breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone, typically leading to:

  • Pain during or after activity

  • Morning stiffness or stiffness after rest

  • Swelling and inflammation

  • Loss of flexibility and range of motion

  • Difficulty with stairs, kneeling, or prolonged standing

Radiographic OA becomes more common with age, but symptoms often precede visible changes on X-ray. Up to 30% of people over 65 show radiographic OA, yet many remain functionally capable — highlighting the importance of early, movement-based interventions (Naja et al., 2021).

Why a Physio-Led Model Before Knee Replacement?

Surgery is not the first or only option. A large systematic review of 19 randomized controlled trials found that non-surgical interventions such as physiotherapy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and structured exercise were associated with meaningful improvements in pain and function over 12 months (Naja et al., 2021). Physiotherapy, in particular, is consistently supported by international guidelines as a first-line treatment (Fransen et al., 2015; Bennell et al., 2014).

Traditionally, knee OA rehab has emphasised quadriceps strengthening — and for good reason, as quadriceps weakness is strongly linked to OA-related pain and disability. However, more recent research suggests that focusing exclusively on the quadriceps may be too narrow. Programs that include hip (gluteal), hamstring, and calf muscle strengthening are now shown to be superior in improving functional outcomes, especially for activities like walking, stair climbing, and maintaining balance (Bennell et al., 2014). This broader approach addresses the full kinetic chain around the knee, optimises joint load distribution, and better supports long-term movement efficiency.

At Praxis, our physios:

  • Assess gait, strength, joint mobility, and function

  • Design individualised exercise programs targeting quadriceps, glutes, and calf strength

  • Implement manual therapy techniques to restore joint mobility

  • Provide pain education, load management advice, and real-world strategies

  • Monitor progress and adjust programs over time

This proactive approach not only builds resilience in the knee but also prepares the joint and surrounding muscles should surgery eventually be required.

Booster Sessions: Keeping Gains, Lowering Costs

An often-overlooked strategy is the use of booster physiotherapy sessions — structured follow-ups after an initial rehab program. Research by Bove et al. (2018) showed that exercise programs with booster sessions at 3, 6, and 12 months were not only more clinically effective but also more cost-effective over a two-year period compared to standard physiotherapy care.

At Praxis, we now embed these booster sessions into long-term OA management. They help patients:

  • Maintain strength and conditioning gains

  • Stay accountable with home programs

  • Troubleshoot new symptoms early

  • Reduce future health care costs and medication reliance

What About Injections and Other Adjuncts?

We often collaborate with GPs and orthopaedic specialists to incorporate adjunct treatments where the evidence supports it:

  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections showed significant long-term benefit for pain and function, with improvements of ~20 points on the WOMAC index. PRP ranked just behind stem cells as the most effective non-surgical treatment in a large 2021 network meta-analysis (Naja et al., 2021).

  • Hyaluronic acid (HA) injections have shown mixed results. A review of overlapping meta-analyses concluded that HA is likely safe and modestly effective, especially in early-stage OA, although guideline recommendations remain inconsistent (Xing et al., 2016).

Ultimately, our philosophy is to build strong knees first, and complement physiotherapy with interventions like PRP or HA only when clinically indicated and appropriately timed.

Surgical Collaboration 

In more advanced cases, where conservative management fails, we work closely with Dr. Kelly Macgroarty, one of Queensland’s leading knee surgeons. Our relationship allows:

  • Streamlined triage for surgical consultation

  • Shared prehabilitation planning to improve surgical outcomes

  • Integrated post-operative rehab, using in-clinic gym equipment and reformer Pilates to accelerate return to function

This continuity ensures you’re never left navigating knee OA alone — whether your journey stays entirely within physio care or progresses to surgical management.

Why Praxis Physiotherapy?

At Praxis, we’ve built our care model around best-practice guidelines, decades of elite sport and private practice experience, and a shared goal of keeping our patients active, independent, and thriving.

Our Teneriffe, Carseldine and Buranda clinics offer:

  • In-clinic rehab gyms

  • Reformer Pilates for joint-friendly loading

  • Real-time strength testing technology

  • Physios with elite sports and post-surgical rehab experience

Take the First Step

If you or someone you love has been told you’re “heading for a knee replacement,” don’t wait. There is so much we can do to reduce pain, improve function, and build confidence in your knees — surgery or not.

Book an appointment today at one of our Brisbane clinics and start your journey to stronger, more resilient knees.

Interested in ACL specific rehab? Check our guide on return to sport after ACL injury

Until next time, Praxis What You Preach!

📍 Clinics in Teneriffe, Buranda, and Carseldine

💪 Trusted by athletes. Backed by evidence. Here for everyone.

References

  • Bove, A. M., Smith, K. J., Bise, C. G., et al. (2018). Exercise, manual therapy, and booster sessions in knee osteoarthritis: cost-effectiveness analysis from a multicenter randomized controlled trial. Physical Therapy, 98(1), 16–27.

  • Fransen, M., McConnell, S., Harmer, A. R., Van der Esch, M., Simic, M., & Bennell, K. L. (2015). Exercise for osteoarthritis of the knee: a Cochrane systematic review. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 49(24), 1554–1557.

  • Bennell, K. L., Dobson, F., & Hinman, R. S. (2014). Exercise in osteoarthritis: moving from prescription to adherence. Best Practice & Research Clinical Rheumatology, 28(1), 93–117.

  • Naja, M., Fernandez De Grado, G., Favreau, H., et al. (2021). Comparative effectiveness of non-surgical interventions in the treatment of patients with knee osteoarthritis: a PRISMA-compliant systematic review and network meta-analysis. Medicine, 100(49), 

  • Xing, D., Wang, B., Liu, Q., et al. (2016). Intra-articular hyaluronic acid in treating knee osteoarthritis: a PRISMA-compliant systematic review of overlapping meta-analyses. Scientific Reports, 6, 32790.

ACL Rehabilitation: The Role of Physiotherapy in Returning to Life, Activity, and Sport

ACL Rehabilitation: The Role of Physiotherapy in Returning to Life, Activity, and Sport

by | Apr 22, 2025 | ACL, Gym and Strength, Knee, Return to Sport, Running Injuries

On today’s Praxis what you Preach, we cover a very common injury here in Australia – the Anterior Cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. At Praxis Physiotherapy, we understand that recovering from ACL reconstruction is more than just healing a knee — it’s about restoring confidence, movement, and returning to the activities and lifestyle that matter most to each person. Physiotherapists are uniquely placed to guide this journey from surgery through to return to everyday function, recreation, and sport.

What is an ACL Rupture?

The ACL is one of the key stabilising ligaments of the knee, crucial for controlling rotation and forward movement of the tibia. An ACL rupture typically occurs during sudden changes in direction, pivoting, or awkward landings — common in sports like AFL, soccer, basketball, and netball. It most often affects young, active individuals, particularly females, due to biomechanical and hormonal factors. While not all ACL injuries require surgery, those with complete ruptures who wish to return to cutting or pivoting sports usually undergo ACL reconstruction. Regardless of the surgical decision, structured rehabilitation guided by a physiotherapist is essential for a successful recovery and long-term knee health.

The Importance of Physiotherapy in ACL Rehab

Research shows that while around 80% of individuals return to some form of sport after ACL reconstruction, only 65% return to their preinjury level and just 55% to competitive levels (Andrade et al. 2020). Physiotherapy plays a vital role in improving these outcomes by guiding progressive rehabilitation and using structured criteria-based progressions.

Physiotherapy-led rehabilitation should begin early, with emphasis on knee mobilisation, weight-bearing as tolerated, and initiation of neuromuscular training (Andrade et al. 2020). The BJSM systematic review of clinical guidelines for ACL rehab supports early kinetic chain exercises (both open and closed), strength training, cryotherapy, and neuromuscular stimulation when indicated (Andrade et al. 2020).

From Healing to Performance: A Continuum

Recovery after ACL surgery should follow a continuum from impairment-based care to performance restoration. This includes early pain and swelling control, progressive strength and range of motion restoration, motor control retraining, and sport-specific preparation. At Praxis, we follow a phase-based rehabilitation model tailored to individual needs. These needs may include the type of surgical graft used, concurrent injury (e.g meniscus / MCL), the operating surgeon’s post-op protocols, the patient’s goals, sport-specific demands, timelines for return to competition, and previous levels of function — all of which require thoughtful and collaborative clinical decision-making.

Unfortunately, studies show that many patients are discharged before meeting strength or performance benchmarks — particularly in strength-focused exercises like the split squat, squat, or deadlift, which play a vital role in ACL rehab progression. For example, performing around 22 single-leg sit-to-stands is one such late-stage benchmark that reflects adequate quadriceps strength and control before return to sport (Welling et al 2018). Nichols et al. (2021) found that most published rehabilitation protocols emphasize endurance and hypertrophy without progressing to the strength or power needed to reduce reinjury risk. This underlines the need for physiotherapists to include high-intensity, sports specific strength training and late-stage performance metrics as patients near return to sport.

Addressing Muscle Atrophy and Weakness

Quadriceps atrophy remains a key barrier to recovery post-ACL reconstruction. Evidence supports adjunct interventions such as neuromuscular electrical stimulation and blood flow restriction (BFR) training to combat muscle loss, particularly in the early post-operative period (Charles et al. 2020). BFR combined with low-load resistance exercise has been shown to reduce muscle wasting and promote strength gains when higher loads are contraindicated — we explore this more in our Blood Flow Restriction Training blog. We use this frequently at Praxis Physiotherapy in both reformer pilates and early gym based settings. 

The Role of the Physio: More Than Just Exercise

Our job as physiotherapists goes beyond prescribing exercises. We support patients through the emotional and motivational challenges of recovery, address fear of re-injury, and help them develop the confidence to return to sport or physically demanding jobs. We tailor plans based on functional goals, sport-specific needs, and personal circumstances.

At Praxis, this also means working closely with coaches, GPs, surgeons, and families to ensure clear communication and aligned expectations. For sporting patients, this might include on-field rehab or comprehensive return-to-play assessments in collaboration with clubs and teams.

A Collaborative, High-Performance Rehabilitation Environment

At Praxis Physiotherapy, we bring high-performance rehab principles to all patients — not just elite athletes. Our team has provided physiotherapy services to the Aspley Hornets AFL Club since 2014, giving us deep insight into the physical and mental demands of competitive sport. We apply this same standard of care to everyday athletes, weekend warriors, and anyone seeking to return to an active lifestyle.

We also work closely with orthopaedic knee and shoulder surgeon Dr. Kelly Macgroarty, including in-room triage consulting, ensuring a seamlessly integrated, evidence-informed rehabilitation pathway. This collaboration allows us to align surgical timelines, post-op considerations, and physiotherapy progressions — from day one to return to sport.

Our clinical culture is shaped by exposure to elite-level sports environments, including AFL, representative athletics, and professional national cricket programs. But rather than highlight individual accolades, we’re most proud of the high clinical standards and systems-based approach that ensure our entire team delivers the same quality of care — no matter who walks through the door.

Each of our Brisbane based clinics includes access to gym facilities and reformer Pilates equipment, allowing for real-world, function-driven exercise. These resources support patients to not only recover structurally but also return to high levels of strength, coordination, and performance in line with the latest evidence-based guidelines.

A Message to Our Patients

Whether you’re an athlete aiming for competitive return or someone wanting to run after your kids again, we bring the same level of care and attention to your ACL rehab. Recovery is not just about timelines — it’s about building back strength, movement, and trust in your knee. Ready to get started with your own recovery plan? Explore the ACL physiotherapy services at Praxis and book an appointment today.

Until next time, Praxis What You Preach…

📍 Clinics in Teneriffe, Buranda, and Carseldine
💪 Trusted by athletes. Backed by evidence. Here for everyone.

For more insights into long-term knee health, including non-surgical rehab, check out our Knee Osteoarthritis blog.

References

Andrade R, et al. (2020). How should clinicians rehabilitate patients after ACL reconstruction? A systematic review of clinical practice guidelines. Br J Sports Med, 54(9), 512–519.

Kochman M, et al. (2022). ACL Reconstruction: Which Additional Physiotherapy Interventions Improve Early-Stage Rehabilitation? Int J Environ Res Public Health, 19(23), 15893.

Charles D, et al. (2020). A systematic review of the effects of blood flow restriction training on quadriceps muscle atrophy and circumference post ACL reconstruction. Int J Sports Phys Ther, 15(6), 882–889.

Nichols ZW, et al. (2021). Is resistance training intensity adequately prescribed to meet the demands of returning to sport following ACL repair? A systematic review. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med, 7(1), e001144.

Welling W, Benjaminse A, Gokeler A, Otten E, & Seil R. (2018). Low rates of patients meeting return to sport criteria 9 months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a prospective longitudinal study. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc, 26(12), 3636–3644.

Capping kneecap pain – Your guide to Anterior Knee Pain (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)

Capping kneecap pain – Your guide to Anterior Knee Pain (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)

by | Jul 11, 2023 | Knee, Return to Sport, Running Injuries

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is a common condition that affects the knee joint, particularly the area where the kneecap (patella) meets the thigh bone (femur). It is a prevalent issue among athletes, active individuals, and people with certain anatomical factors. In this Praxis What You Preach article, we will explore PFPS, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options, shedding light on how physiotherapy can effectively manage and alleviate this condition.

What is PFPS?

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, also known as runner’s knee or anterior knee pain, occurs when the patella fails to glide smoothly over the femoral groove during knee movement. This causes irritation and inflammation in the patellofemoral joint, specifically the underlying bone, leading to pain, discomfort, loss of function and even swelling. PFPS can be triggered by multiple factors, such as overuse, muscle imbalances, poor biomechanics, weak hip and thigh muscles, improper footwear, and previous knee injuries. Essentially though it is the kneecap joints’ in ability to tolerate the load of the activities being undertaken.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Common symptoms of PFPS include pain around or behind the patella, especially during activities that involve knee squatting, lunging, bending, climbing / descending stairs, or sitting for extended periods with knees bent (commonly called movie goers knee). These typically can occur when workloads have increased with activities such as running, cycling or weightlifting. Patients may also experience swelling, grinding or even stabbing sensations, and occasionally a feeling of knee instability. A physiotherapist will perform a comprehensive evaluation, considering the patient’s medical history, conducting a physical examination, and possibly using imaging tests, to accurately diagnose PFPS and rule out other potential causes of knee pain.

Treatment and Management

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing and treating PFPS. The primary goal of physiotherapy is to exclude differential diagnoses, alleviate pain, improve knee function, manage aggravating workloads and prevent the recurrence of symptoms. Treatment plans are tailored after a comprehensive history taking and examination to the individual’s specific needs and should include the following components:

  • Pain Management: Initially, pain and inflammation may be managed through ice therapy, massage, stretching and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
  • Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises aim to strengthen the hip, thigh, and trunk muscles, which can help correct muscle imbalances and improve knee alignment and load tolerance.
  • Stretching and Flexibility: Stretching exercises can help improve flexibility in the muscles surrounding the knee joint, reducing strain on the patellofemoral joint.
  • Biomechanical Analysis: A physiotherapist may evaluate the patient’s movement patterns during functional activities such as jumping and running to identify any obvious faulty mechanics that contribute to PFPS. Corrective techniques, gait retraining may be employed.
  • Activity Modification and Rehabilitation: A gradual return to activities while maintaining a balance between rest and exercise is important to ensure proper healing and prevent re-injury.
  • Taping: taping has been shown to acutely help reduce symptoms by aiding in the improvement of kneecap tracking through the femoral trochlea (groove where the kneecap runs)

Prevention Strategies

To prevent the onset or recurrence of PFPS, individuals can incorporate the following strategies:

  • Regular strength and conditioning exercises to maintain muscle balance and strength of the lower limbs and trunk musculature.
  • Proper warm-up and cool-down routines before and after physical activities.
  • Gradual progression of activity levels and intensities to avoid overuse injuries.
  • Being aware of the early signs and symptoms and addressing them promptly.

Is my knee pain osteoarthritis?

In short, No. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is not the same as Patellofemoral Joint (PFJ) Osteoarthritis (OA). While both conditions involve the patellofemoral joint, they are distinct entities with different causes and characteristics. As mentioned, PFPS primarily involves pain and dysfunction in the patellofemoral joint, often caused by factors such as overuse, muscle imbalances, or poor biomechanics. It is commonly seen in younger athletes and active individuals. PFPS is characterized by pain around or behind the patella, especially during activities that involve knee bending or loading such as running.

On the other hand, PFJ OA refers to the degeneration and wearing down of the cartilage within the patellofemoral joint. This condition typically occurs in older individuals and is more common in those with a history of knee injuries or conditions such as patellar instability. The primary symptom of patellofemoral joint osteoarthritis is joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, which worsen over time. This pain can be at rest.

While both conditions can cause knee pain and affect the patellofemoral joint, the underlying mechanisms and treatment approaches differ. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing both conditions, but the specific treatment plans and exercises may vary based on the individual’s diagnosis, symptoms, and physical examination findings.

In summary, Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is a common knee condition that can significantly impact an individual’s daily activities. With a comprehensive physiotherapy approach involving pain management, strengthening exercises, and biomechanical analysis, PFPS can be effectively managed and treated, allowing individuals to regain pain-free movement and engage in their desired activities. If your knee cap pain prevents you from doing the things you want to do, book in with of our expert Praxis team members to discuss getting you back to function!

Until next time,

Praxis What You Preach

Team Praxis

Knee Osteoarthritis: Is ‘Bone on Bone’ a painful life sentence?

Knee Osteoarthritis: Is ‘Bone on Bone’ a painful life sentence?

by | May 16, 2023 | Knee, Osteoarthritis, Pain, Surgery

  • Knee Osteoarthritis is a common ailment responsible for pain, loss of function and reduced quality of life
  • Rates of knee OA are set to increase
  • Whilst there is no cure, exercise therapy under the guidance of a physiotherapist is considered a front line treatment to help reduce the severity of symptoms
  • There are options before a knee replacement

Do your knees go crackle and pop? Pain with walking, stairs or getting out of a chair? Stiffness and pain first thing in the morning or after a long car ride? These are signs that you may be living with the early or even advanced symptoms of knee osteoarthritis (OA). Don’t fear though – there is plenty that can be done immediately.

What is “OA”?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is an increasingly prevalent source of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. OA is a disease of the joint – including cartilage, bone, capsule and other associated tissues. This disease process can cause chronic pain, reduced physical function and diminished quality of life. The ageing population and increased global prevalence of obesity are anticipated to dramatically increase the impacts of knee OA and its associated impairments [1]. Although osteoarthritis can affect any joint, OA is knee is one of the most common complaints.

Presentation

It most commonly presents in people over the age of 50, and is often described as being painful, stiff and occasionally swollen. In terms of a tissue level, knee OA describes the gradual deterioration of the supportive cartilage within the knee joint. As the cartilage wears away with time, the protective joint space between the bones decreases. With a reduced cartilage lining to protect and support the spacing of the knee joint, the Femur and Tibia (knee bones) are increasingly less likely to dissipate forces through the joint . With time, it should be expected that bone spurs (osteophytes) may form in and around the joint as the bones react to repetitive contact with each other.

Management

The management of knee OA largely consists of exercises addressing strength, range of motion, quality of movement, emphasizing joint control, pain reduction and weight management.

Strength Training

Strength training should be the cornerstone of addressing knee OA, particularly the early signs. Strengthening the muscles around the knee joint, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes provide better support to the knee, reducing stress on the joint and helping to alleviate pain and discomfort. Movement associated with exercise has an added benefit – It increases joint lubrication. Loading of the joint stimulates the production and distribution of synovial fluid within the joint. This fluid acts as a lubricant, reducing friction and providing cushioning to the joint surfaces. Improved lubrication can help alleviate pain during movement.

Range of motion

Knee osteoarthritis often leads to stiffness and limited range of motion in the joint. Physiotherapy can include specific exercises, manual therapy and stretches to improve joint flexibility, helping to restore a more normal range of motion and enhancing mobility. The greater the restoration of range, the better the knee feels.

Pain reduction

Both strength training and physiotherapy can help reduce pain associated with knee OA. As mentioned, stronger muscles provide better support to the joint, relieving pressure and reducing pain during movement. Physiotherapy may provide education of aggravating and easing factors (eg. hot / cold packs, hydrotherapy) as well as liaise with your GP for adequate analgesic medications.

Lifestyle modifications

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can play a pivotal role in managing knee osteoarthritis. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the stress on the knee joints. Regular low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling and reformer pilates help improve strength, flexibility, and overall joint health. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can promote weight loss and provide essential nutrients for joint health. Quitting smoking and minimizing alcohol consumption are also beneficial.

Improved weight management

Regular exercise can assist in weight management, which is crucial for individuals with knee osteoarthritis. Excess weight puts additional strain on the knee joint, contributing to pain and progression of the condition. By maintaining a healthy weight, exercise helps to reduce the load on the joint and alleviate pain.

Surgical Interventions

When conservative measures fail to provide relief, surgical interventions may be necessary. Procedures such as arthroscopy, osteotomy, and joint replacement surgery can help repair damaged tissues, realign the joint, or replace the damaged joint with a prosthetic. These surgeries can significantly improve mobility and reduce pain, allowing individuals to resume their daily activities. Physiotherapy can aid in preparing you for the surgery, as well as rebuild your “new” knee after a knee replacement has been completed.

In conclusion, while knee osteoarthritis can be challenging, it is not a condition that should hinder individuals from leading fulfilling lives. By implementing lifestyle modifications, exploring various treatment options, and working closely with your physiotherapist, individuals can effectively manage their symptoms, alleviate pain, and enjoy an active lifestyle with a sense of well-being. If conservative options fail, there are surgical interventions that can be investigated. If you are wanting to look after your knees, or already suffering from knee pain, chat to our knowledgeable Praxis Physios to discuss your treatment options at any stage of OA’s progression.

Until next time,

Praxis what you Preach

Is running bad for your knees?

Is running bad for your knees?

by | Nov 28, 2018 | Knee, Pain, Return to Sport, Running Injuries, Sports Injury

Running. Probably one of the most maligned exercises when it comes to knees and overuse injuries. The thought that running ‘wears’ out your knees and causes osteoarthritis (a chronic disease often associated with joint pain and stiffness, reduced mobility and reduced quality of life) is one of the most common comments I hear as a physiotherapist – typically by non-runners. But do we have it right? Is running actually bad for your knees?

I recently attended the University of Queensland Sports Masters presentation day. The keynote speaker was a Dr Jean-Francois Esculier, a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of British Columbia on the topics of running and knee osteoarthritis. Originally trained as a physiotherapist, Dr Esculier gave us an excellent overview of his latest research his take on whether or not running is detrimental to knee health.

First, there was an acknowledgement that echoed the sentiments in the opening paragraph. A study in which Dr Esculier undertook attempted to ascertain the perception about running and the knee joint health among the public and health care professionals. The results suggested that many non-runners perceived running as detrimental to knee health. Understandably, with no clear guidelines, health care professionals displayed high rates of uncertainty regarding running as a risk factor to develop knee osteoarthritis (KOA), and about the appropriateness of running with pre-existing KOA [1].

Mid Potion Achilles Tendinopathy Location

Osteoarthritis often results in cartilage loss, in bone rubbing on bone, which can cause inflammation, pain, stiffness, reduced mobility and reduced quality of life [7].

The paucity of clear training parameters for runners also has a knock on effect with a staggering 75% of runners report being injured whilst running each year with the knee being the most common region of complaint [2]. From my experience as a clinician, the factor that is most often associated with an injury are training errors. Too much too quick. Boom bust. No physical preparation. No listening to your body or allowing adequate recovery time. No periodisation or plan – just run and run.

The remainder of the talk that covered many interesting relatable topics (that will likely be areas for future blogs) but the information that most interested me and should answer the question as to whether running is bad for your knees was the following:

Cartilage change with running:

With the improvements in MRI scanning, more papers are looking at the cartilage volume of knees immediately after a long distance run. According to current evidence [3], cartilage may exhibit short-term decreases in thickness, volume and cartilage water flow (T2 relaxation time) secondary to temporary loss of fluid following repeated compressions associated with running. However, cartilage size tends to return to baseline within hours suggesting that cartilage may well tolerate mechanical loading sustained during running and adapt to repeated exposure.

The response of cartilage to longitudinal load is exactly what Van Ginckel et al [4] investigated. After providing a 10 week “Start To Run” program to novice runners, the reserachers looked at the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content before and after the running intervention and compared to sedentary controls, who did no running. For those of you (like me) who had no idea what glycosaminoglycan / GAG content is, it is essentially a surrogate marker for cartilage quality (specifically, GAG is an important structural matrix compound in regulating the cartilage tissue’s endosmotic swelling pressure and thus, the tissue’s compressive strength).

The results suggested that a gradually built up running scheme appears to positively effect GAG content, and thus cartilage quality. In fact, running appears to be a chondroprotective effect on the knee when compared to a sedentary lifestyle in a female asymptomatic subjects. The author’s went onto say that running schemes like this might be considered a valuable tool in osteoarthritis prevention strategies [4].

Osteoarthritis (OA) rates in competitive vs recreational vs non-runners:

The body’s ability to adapt to considered and appropriate load is likely explanation as to why when we look at the rates of lower limb osteoarthritis (OA) across the population, we find some interesting results. A systematic review [5] of the literature looked at the association of recreational and competitive running with hip and knee OA. The overall prevalence of hip and knee OA was 13.3% in competitive runners, 3.5% in recreational runners, and 10.2% in controls. Exposure to running of less than 15 years was associated with a lower association with hip and/or knee OA compared with non-runners.

Recreational runners had a lower occurrence of OA compared with competitive runners and controls. These results indicated that a more sedentary lifestyle or long exposure to high-volume and/or high-intensity running are both associated with hip and/or knee OA. However, it was not possible to determine whether these associations were causative or confounded by other risk factors, such as previous injury [5].

SUMMARY

Running appears not to cause osteoarthritis in your knees unless you are a competitive long distance runner. Even then, you are only slightly above the average for non-runners but enjoy the myriad of other benefits that exercise brings. Further, increased mileage in recreational runners appears to be actually protective for your knees and reduces your risk of needing a knee replacement [6]. Caution however must be taken to monitor detailed training parameters such as frequency, speed and distance, so that an optimal dosage for knee joint health tailored to the individual patients with knee osteoarthritis.

So the next time someone tells you that you shouldn’t be running because you’ll get OA, or if your health expert recommends to stop all activity because you have been diagnosed with mild / moderate osteoarthritis of the knee, we can help! As always, we at Praxis are more than happy to help you navigate your way back to performing – whatever that may look like! Give us a call (07) 3102 3337 or book online www.praxisphysio.com.au today

Until next time, Praxis What You Preach

There is no need to accept knee pain as ‘normal’. Call us now on (07) 3102 3337 or book online to have one of our physios develop a plan to reduce your pain and restore your function!

To read more about how running can help your knees (that’s right – running!) check out our related posts on running written by our published principal physio, Stephen.

Team Praxis,

PREVENT | PREPARE | PERFORM