Course Description:

Osteoarthritis affects up to 40% of all adults, with knee and hip Osteoarthritis among the most common causes of pain and disability in the older adult population. Osteoarthritis-related disability is a major health problem. There is no cure for Osteoarthritis, but many have tried to further understand common pathologies and the etiology of Osteoarthritis to better decrease the effects Osteoarthritis has on one’s functional abilities. Osteoarthritis can be treated with conservative and non-conservative measures, including surgery. Weight plays a role in the diagnosis of Osteoarthritis, so weight management is an important factor when considering treatment options. This course discusses how Physical Therapy professionals can help patients and clients decrease their Osteoarthritis-related symptoms, while improving their functional ability, using both conservative management techniques and post-operative rehabilitation.