Keywords

exercise, joint pain, obesity, older adult, sedentary

Abstract

Half of all older adults report knee and/or hip pain. Obesity and sedentary lifestyle contribute to the incidence and prevalence of painful knee and hip conditions. Weight loss should be a priority in overweight or obese patients. Improving joint function over time requires a balance of rest and usage. Practitioners should assess joint disorders and recommend exercises for reducing knee and hip pain with patients when appropriate. Instruction should include a combination of 1) stretching and flexibility, 2) strength training, and 3) endurance conditioning exercises. Even small improvements in exercise can make meaningful improvements in pain, movement, endurance, and quality of life.

Original Publication Citation

Peterson, N. E., ^Osterloh, K. D., & *Graff, M. N. (2019). Exercises for older adults with knee and hip pain. Journal for Nurse Practitioners, 15(4), 263-267.