Strength Training in Older Adults: The Benefits for Osteoarthritis

This review summarizes the findings of randomized controlled trials of progressive resistance training (PRT) by older people with osteoarthritis (OA). A significant benefit was found in lower-extremity extensor strength, function, and pain reduction. Across all 3 outcomes, the estimated effect size was moderate, which contrasted with trials of PRT in non-OA-specific groups of older adults where a large effect was found in strength but a small effect on function. This suggests that strength training has strong functional benefits for older adults with OA. Older adults with OA benefit from a strength-training program that provides progressive overload to maintain intensity throughout an exercise program.