12/09/2025
Knee Osteoarthritis:
Patients with osteoarthritis (OA) in their knees commonly have weakness in their quadricep muscles, compared to patients without knee OA.
Patients with knee OA will describe symptoms of pain, decreased mobility, and an instability, affecting their function and quality of life. The quadriceps muscles help to act as a shock absorber for the knee. Therefore, weakness in the quadriceps will decrease the joint protection, and result in a greater load and stress on the joint.
A randomized controlled trial (Level 1 evidence) in 2012 concluded that an 8 week exercise program focusing on quadricep strengthening was effective in improving pain, function and quality of life in patients with knee OA.
The first 2 exercises shown above are great starting exercises for strengthening the quadricep muscles. The third exercise is to help relieve pain and pressure in the knee, by opening up space in the knee joint.
1. Isometric quad sets
2. Straight leg raise
3. Knee flexion with rolled towel
Looking for exercises specific to your injury? Click the link in bio to book an appointment with one of our Physiotherapists.
