Which exercise approach best supports managing osteoarthritis?

Which exercise approach best supports managing osteoarthritis?

• A. High-impact training only.
• B. No exercise.
• C. Low-impact aerobic exercise and functional exercises.
• D. Only resistance training.

Answer: (C)

The best approach to managing osteoarthritis is to combine activities that protect the joints with activities that build the supporting muscles and improve everyday function. Low‑impact aerobic exercise—like walking, cycling, or swimming—lets you improve cardiovascular fitness and help control weight while placing less stress on the affected joints. Pairing this with functional strengthening exercises—such as sit-to-stands, step-ups, and gentle leg or hip strengthening—targets the movements you use daily, helping you move more easily and safely. This combination works well because it reduces joint load, enhances muscle support around the joints, and improves overall mobility and daily independence. High‑impact training can increase joint pain and irritation; doing no exercise misses the benefits of movement, and focusing only on resistance training may neglect cardiovascular health and functional daily activities.

The best approach to managing osteoarthritis is to combine activities that protect the joints with activities that build the supporting muscles and improve everyday function. Low‑impact aerobic exercise—like walking, cycling, or swimming—lets you improve cardiovascular fitness and help control weight while placing less stress on the affected joints. Pairing this with functional strengthening exercises—such as sit-to-stands, step-ups, and gentle leg or hip strengthening—targets the movements you use daily, helping you move more easily and safely.

This combination works well because it reduces joint load, enhances muscle support around the joints, and improves overall mobility and daily independence. High‑impact training can increase joint pain and irritation; doing no exercise misses the benefits of movement, and focusing only on resistance training may neglect cardiovascular health and functional daily activities.