Physiotherapy Exercise and Physical Activity for Knee Osteoarthritis (PEAK)

Implement best-practice care to people with knee osteoarthritis

The PEAK program was devised by leading physiotherapists at the University of Melbourne on the basis of research evidence. On this course we guide physiotherapists in how to implement best-practice care to people with knee osteoarthritis, delivered through one-to-one consultations, via videoconferencing (using the Zoom platform) or during face-to-face, in-person consultations.

The PEAK program focuses on patient empowerment through education, prescription of a strengthening exercise program and a physical activity plan, individualised to patient needs, and using minimal exercise equipment (e.g. elastic resistance bands and/or body weight) to enable patients to perform exercise independently at home.

Many of the principles and concepts are applicable to other common musculoskeletal conditions, and to other telehealth videoconferencing platforms. Importantly, a suite of useful patient resources (including a Zoom consultation preparation booklet, an exercise booklet, an osteoarthritis information booklet, a knee plan and log book) are provided, so that physiotherapists may print/download them or use with their patients in a clinical setting.

This course is also available to take in Spanish, Portuguese and Chinese.

Physiotherapists, Physiotherapy students, educators, researchers and other health professionals

To complete some exercises with patients you may require basic equipment such as resistance bands.

Physiotherapists, Physiotherapy students, educators, researchers and other health professionals

• Describe the best-practice management of knee osteoarthritis, based on the latest research evidence
• Summarise osteoarthritis, its prognosis and common treatment approaches, including the benefits of exercise and strategies for staying physically active to your patients.
• Apply a structured program of education, strengthening exercises and an individualised physical activity plan with your clients who have persistent knee pain.
• Perform delivery of the PEAK program in your clinical setting, during both face-to-face consultations and via telehealth.