Biomechanical dysfunction in patients with primary osteoarthritis of the knee: the role of physical therapy

Abstract

Biomechanical factors such as reduced muscle strength and narrowing of the knee joint play an important role in the initiation and progression of primary osteoarthritis. Pharmacological treatment is not always effective and, in some cases, is accompanied by side effects. However, some factors associated with osteoarthritis, such as muscle dysfunction and decreased physical activity, may be improved through physical rehabilitation. In this article, we describe the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and approaches to physical rehabilitation for biomechanical disorders associated with primary osteoarthritis of the knee (gonarthrosis).