Move More, Heal More: Exercise as Osteoarthritis’s First-Line Treatment
New evidence argues that exercise—not pills or surgery—is the most effective, underused treatment for osteoarthritis. Regular movement protects cartilage, strengthens muscles, and can reduce inflammation and pain, with programs like GLA:D showing lasting improvements. Yet health systems often underrefer exercise and push surgical options before non-surgical options are explored. OA is a whole-joint disease influenced by weight and metabolism, and there are no disease-modifying drugs, so an 'exercise first' approach is recommended to improve joint health and overall wellbeing.
