Introduction: As the older population increases worldwide, so does the prevalence of non-communicable and chronic diseases, including osteoarthritis. It is a degenerative disease of the synovial joints characterised by premature and precipitous loss of structure and function of articular cartilage with remodelling and sclerosis of the subchondral bone and formation of subchondral cysts and osteophytes. The disease is incurable and treatment is aimed at alleviating symptoms and slowing the progression of the condition. Aquatic exercise is one of the conservative treatment options. Purpose: The aim of this thesis was to review the scientific literature and present the effects of aquatic exercise in older adults with osteoarthritis of the knee. Methods: Literature published between 2011 and 2022 was searched in the PubMed, PEDro and CINAHL databases by remote access. Results: After reviewing inclusion and exclusion criteria, eight studies were included in the literature review to determine the effectiveness of water exercise for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee compared with healthy lifestyle without therapy/education/land-based exercise. The authors assessed pain, functional capacity, muscle strength, range of motion, gait parameters, balance, quality of life and the presence of depressive symptoms using different measurement tools at different time points. Discussion and conclusion: Based on the literature review, it can be concluded that aquatic exercise is effective in relieving pain, reducing joint strain, stiffness and swelling; maintaining or increasing joint range of motion and muscle strength; and improving functional capacity, walking ability and balance. Further research with a larger number of subjects would be needed to confirm the results obtained.
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