steoarthritis (OA) is one of
the most prevalent musculo-
skeletal conditions affecting
the elderly population worldwide,1
and its prevalence is predicted to
rise significantly in the future as the
population ages.2 Knee OA currently
affects about 40% of people aged
over 75 years, and hip OA affects
about 10%.3 People with OA fre-
quently report joint pain, stiffness,
loss of physical function, increasing
immobility, and muscle weakness.
Such signs and symptoms of the dis-
ease often culminate in reductions in
quality of life. Contemporary man-
agement of OA aims to alleviate pain
and disability while avoiding adverse
effects of therapy.4 Current guide-
lines recommend nonpharmacologic
methods, such as physical therapy,
as first-line options in the manage-
ment of OA.5 Physical therapy for
OA may be provided on land or in an
aquatic environment.