Which non-pharmacologic activity is strongly recommended for knee osteoarthritis management?

Which non-pharmacologic activity is strongly recommended for knee osteoarthritis management?

• A. Tai chi
• B. TENS
• C. Cane
• D. 1st CMC orthosis

Answer: (A)

Engaging in regular, nonpharmacologic activity is a cornerstone of knee OA management because movement and exercise help reduce pain, improve function, and protect joint health. Tai chi fits best here because it is a gentle, low‑impact activity that combines soft aerobic work with balance, muscle strengthening, and proprioception training. The slow, controlled movements place minimal stress on the knee while promoting leg strength and coordination, which can translate to better walking performance and less pain during daily activities. Evidence from trials shows tai chi can meaningfully reduce knee OA pain and improve function and stiffness, with a favorable safety profile, making it a practical option for many patients, especially older adults. The other options are less appropriate as nonpharmacologic activities for knee OA. TENS is a pain-relief modality rather than an ongoing activity or exercise. A cane is a mobility aid that can unload the knee during walking, improving comfort, but it is not an activity or exercise that improves joint health by itself. An orthosis for the first carpometacarpal joint targets hand arthritis and has no relevance to the knee joint.

Engaging in regular, nonpharmacologic activity is a cornerstone of knee OA management because movement and exercise help reduce pain, improve function, and protect joint health. Tai chi fits best here because it is a gentle, low‑impact activity that combines soft aerobic work with balance, muscle strengthening, and proprioception training. The slow, controlled movements place minimal stress on the knee while promoting leg strength and coordination, which can translate to better walking performance and less pain during daily activities. Evidence from trials shows tai chi can meaningfully reduce knee OA pain and improve function and stiffness, with a favorable safety profile, making it a practical option for many patients, especially older adults.

The other options are less appropriate as nonpharmacologic activities for knee OA. TENS is a pain-relief modality rather than an ongoing activity or exercise. A cane is a mobility aid that can unload the knee during walking, improving comfort, but it is not an activity or exercise that improves joint health by itself. An orthosis for the first carpometacarpal joint targets hand arthritis and has no relevance to the knee joint.