1
|
Cronström A, Sjödahl Hammarlund C. "A feeling of being part of the future": a qualitative study on physical therapists' experiences of delivering digital first-line treatment for hip and knee osteoarthritis. Physiother Theory Pract 2024:1-10. [PMID: 39034494 DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2024.2380478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Digital options for osteoarthritis (OA) treatment are increasingly available with high patient satisfaction and acceptability. Little is, however, known about physical therapists' (PT) perception of this treatment modality. OBJECTIVE To investigate PT's experience of delivering digital treatment for hip and knee OA using a smart-phone application. METHOD Nine PTs (mean age 36 years, women n = 5) with 3-24 months experience of delivering digital OA treatment were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using content analysis. RESULTS Four main categories arose; 1) A feeling of being part of the future, 2) Making an osteoarthritis diagnosis in a digital setting, 3) Facilitators and barriers of digital OA management and 4) Where to go from here? PTs were in general positive for digital treatment delivery but felt that a lack of visual assessments and physical examinations to enhance exercise evaluations and diagnosis accuracy was sometimes a disadvantage. CONCLUSION Digital treatment delivery was in general perceived as a time-efficient way of providing high-quality care that may increase patient motivation and adherence without violating the therapeutic alliance. Future implementations of digital OA treatment programs should consider the possibility of including real-time video calls for visual assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Cronström
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Catharina Sjödahl Hammarlund
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- The Pro-care Group, Faculty of Health Science, Kristianstad University, Kristianstad, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mahmoudian A, Lohmander LS, Dahlberg LE, Kiadaliri A. Participation in a digital self-management intervention for osteoarthritis and socioeconomic inequalities in patient-related outcomes. Scand J Rheumatol 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38899452 DOI: 10.1080/03009742.2024.2361542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate changes in socioeconomic inequalities in patient-related outcomes and pain medication use, following participation in a digital self-management intervention for osteoarthritis (OA) in Sweden. METHOD Participants with hip/knee OA enrolled in the digital intervention were included. Self-reported outcomes collected were the numerical rating scale (NRS) pain, activity impairment, general health, Knee/Hip injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS-12, HOOS-12) Pain, Function, and Quality of Life subscales, 5-level EuroQol 5 Dimensions (EQ-5D-5L), Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) for function, walking difficulties, fear of movement, wish for surgery, pain medication use, physical function measured by the 30s chair-stand test, and level of physical activity. Educational attainment was used as a socioeconomic measure and the concentration index was used to assess the magnitude of inequalities at baseline and 3 month follow-up. RESULTS The study included 21,688 participants (mean ± sd age 64.1 ± 9.1 years, 74.4% females). All outcomes except for PASS demonstrated inequalities in favour of highly educated participants at both time-points, with highly educated participants reporting better outcomes. At 3 month follow-up, the magnitude of inequality widened for activity impairment, but narrowed for NRS pain, EQ-5D-5L, KOOS-12/HOOS-12 Pain and Function, physical function, and wish for surgery. There were no statistically conclusive changes in the magnitude of inequalities for the remaining outcomes. CONCLUSIONS There were inequalities in patient-related outcomes in favour of those with higher education among participants of a digital self-management intervention for OA, although the magnitude of these pre-existing inequalities generally narrowed after the 3 month intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Mahmoudian
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Orthopaedics, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Movement Sciences and Health, University of West Florida, Pensacola, FL, USA
| | - L S Lohmander
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Orthopaedics, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - L E Dahlberg
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Orthopaedics, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - A Kiadaliri
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Orthopaedics, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Stevenson RDM, Chowdhury EA, Inza VB, Western MJ, Walsh NE, Jones SL, Bilzon JLJ. Development of the intelligent knee osteoarthritis lifestyle app: a person-based approach. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2024; 25:189. [PMID: 38431553 PMCID: PMC10908108 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-024-07313-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most prevalent long term health conditions globally. Exercise and physical activity are now widely recognised to significantly reduce joint pain, improve physical function and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis. However, prescribed exercise without regular contact with a healthcare professional often results in lower adherence and poorer health outcomes. Digital mobile health (mHealth) technologies offer great potential to support people with long-term conditions such as knee osteoarthritis more efficiently and effectively and with relatively lower cost than existing interventions. However, there are currently very few mHealth interventions for the self-management of knee osteoarthritis. The aim of the present study was to describe the development process of a mHealth app to extend the support for physical activity and musculoskeletal health beyond short-term, structured rehabilitation through self-management, personalised physical activity, education, and social support. METHODS The development of the intelligent knee osteoarthritis lifestyle application intervention involved an iterative and interconnected process comprising intervention 'planning' and 'optimisation' informed by the person-based approach framework for the development of digital health interventions. The planning phase involved a literature review and collection of qualitative data obtained from focus groups with individuals with knee osteoarthritis (n = 26) and interviews with relevant physiotherapists (n = 5) to generate 'guiding principles' for the intervention. The optimisation phase involved usability testing (n = 7) and qualitative 'think aloud' sessions (n = 6) with potential beneficiaries to refine the development of the intervention. RESULTS Key themes that emerged from the qualitative data included the need for educational material, modifying activities to suit individual abilities and preferences as well as the inclusion of key features such as rehabilitation exercises. Following a user-trial further changes were made to improve the usability of the application. CONCLUSIONS Using a systematic person-based, development approach, we have developed the intelligent knee osteoarthritis lifestyle application to help people maintain physical activity behaviour. The app extends the support for physical activity and musculoskeletal health beyond short-term, structured rehabilitation through personalised physical activity guidance, education, and social support.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard D M Stevenson
- Department for Health, The University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Enhad A Chowdhury
- Department for Health, The University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Victor B Inza
- Visual Computing Centre, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Max J Western
- Department for Health, The University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Nicola E Walsh
- Faculty of Health and Applied Science, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - Simon L Jones
- Department of Computer Science, The University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - James L J Bilzon
- Department for Health, The University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK.
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, University of Bath, Bath, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Moutzouri M, Koumantakis GA, Hurley M, Kladouchou AG, Gioftsos G. Effectiveness of a Web-Guided Self-Managed Telerehabilitation Program Enhanced with Outdoor Physical Activity on Physical Function, Physical Activity Levels and Pain in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Clin Med 2024; 13:934. [PMID: 38398248 PMCID: PMC10889528 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13040934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Telerehabilitation to guide self-management has been shown to be a feasible care strategy for knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The aim of this study was to explore the effectiveness of a blended web-based rehabilitation program enhanced with outdoor physical activity (BWR-OPA) and consultation versus an OPA (usual care) program in KOA patients. Methods: Forty-four KOA participants were prescribed to follow the programs five times/week for 6 weeks. The primary outcome was self-reported physical function, measured by the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). The secondary outcomes were pain, PA, function (timed up-and-go (TUG) test, 30 s chair rise test (30 s CRT)), psychological functioning and QoL. Results: There was a significant difference between the groups' KOOSs for pain and symptom subscales at the 6- and 12-week post-intervention assessments compared to baseline (p < 0.005) favoring the BWR-OPA group. There was a superior improvement in PA in the BWR-OPA training group (p < 0.05). Statistical and clinical improvements were found (p < 0.001) with effect sizes over 2.0 for objective measures of function. Similar improvements were recorded over time (p < 0.005) at 12 weeks for QoL, KOOS subscales for ADL, QoL and sports/recreation and psychological functioning for both groups. Conclusions: A blended web-based self-managed care program with outdoor PA was superior in many respects to usual care in KOA participants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Moutzouri
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (G.A.K.); (G.G.)
| | - George A. Koumantakis
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (G.A.K.); (G.G.)
| | - Michael Hurley
- Centre for Allied Health, St George’s University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, UK;
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Kingston University, Holmwood House, Grove Crescent, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2EE, UK
- Orthopaedic Research UK, Furlong House, 10a Chandos Street, London W1G 9DQ, UK
| | | | - George Gioftsos
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (G.A.K.); (G.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Webb J, Allison H, Mprah M. Let's Move with Leon-A qualitative evaluation of a UK digital intervention to improve physical activity in people with a musculoskeletal condition. Public Health 2024; 227:32-37. [PMID: 38103274 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2023.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This article presents a qualitative evaluation of a 13-week digital intervention, 'Let's Move with Leon', designed to improve physical activity in people with a musculoskeletal condition. STUDY DESIGN A qualitative evaluation embedded within a randomised controlled trial assessing the effectiveness of the intervention at improving self-reported physical activity. METHODS A total of 184 participants received the intervention and were asked each week for 13 weeks to provide comment on their use and the usefulness of the digital physical activity behaviour change intervention. In addition, after 13 weeks, 12 participants took part in a semistructured interview to understand their use and the usefulness of the intervention. A thematic analysis was conducted on the combined qualitative data set. RESULTS A total of 128 of the 184 intervention participants (70.11%) provided at least one qualitative comment over the course of the evaluation (mean number of comments per participant = 5); in total, 674 comments were received. The thematic analysis identified three themes: (1) dipping in and out, (2) one size does not fit all and (3) monitoring and feedback. The qualitative data suggest that participants used the intervention sporadically, dipping in and out due to other commitments, and competing programmes, their changing physical ability, confidence and motivation. Not getting off to a good start was detrimental to use; many wanted to come back to the programme at a more appropriate time. A 'one size fits' approach catered for some but not all participants. Whilst not a predetermined intervention component the act of monitoring levels of activity as a data collection method seemed to encourage physical activity but may also result in negative social comparisons. CONCLUSION Digital physical activity behaviour change interventions are not one-size-fits-all; personalisation is key. Monitoring of activity by a named person can create commitment. Many dip in and out. Digital physical activity behaviour change interventions could complement physiotherapy exercises for people with musculoskeletal conditions. Signposting to local activities should be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Webb
- School of Social Sciences and Professions, London Metropolitan University, 166-220 Holloway Rd, London, N7 8DB, UK.
| | - H Allison
- School of Social Sciences and Professions, London Metropolitan University, 166-220 Holloway Rd, London, N7 8DB, UK
| | - M Mprah
- School of Social Sciences and Professions, London Metropolitan University, 166-220 Holloway Rd, London, N7 8DB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Stevenson RDM, Chowdhury EA, Lobo J, Western MJ, Bilzon JLJ. Influence of the intelligent knee osteoarthritis lifestyle app (iKOALA) on knee joint pain. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2024; 25:90. [PMID: 38263125 PMCID: PMC10807134 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-024-07198-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The intelligent knee osteoarthritis lifestyle app (iKOALA) has been co-developed with target users to extend the support for physical activity (PA) and musculoskeletal health, beyond short-term structured rehabilitation, using personalised PA guidance, education, and social support. The purpose of this study was to assess the preliminary effectiveness and usability of the iKOALA digital intervention on indices of musculoskeletal (MSK) health, symptoms, and physical activity levels in a broad range of individuals with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) over 12 weeks to inform the design of a larger randomised controlled trial. METHODS Thirty-eight (33 female) participants living in the UK with a mean (SD) age of 58 (± 9) years diagnosed radiographically or clinically with KOA completed a 12-week user trial of the iKOALA. Participants completed an in-app physical activity questionnaire which intelligently recommended suitable strengthening and aerobic based activities to individuals. Throughout the trial, participants wore a physical activity monitor and were given access to functions within the app (physical activity (PA) reminders, information and education, symptom and PA tracking as well as social support forums) to support them in maintaining their PA plan. Participants completed a MSK questionnaire for chronic symptoms and quality of life (MSK-HQ) as well as an acute iKOALA symptoms questionnaire (confidence, fatigue, mood, pain during the day/night, sleep and ability to walk) in the week prior to starting and following completion of the trial. RESULTS Physical activity levels were consistent over the 12 weeks with total daily steps of 9102 (± 3514) in week 1, 9576 (± 4214) in week 6 and 9596 (± 3694) in week 12. Group mean changes in all iKOALA MSK symptom scores and the total MSK-HQ (pre 33.1 (7.6) vs. post 40.2 (7.6)) score improved significantly (p < .001, 95% CI [-8.89, -5.16]) over the 12-week period. CONCLUSIONS Physical activity levels were maintained at a high level throughout the 12 weeks. Significant improvements in mean MSK symptom scores and the total MSK-HQ score were also observed. Efforts to ensure more generalised reach amongst sex and socioeconomic status of the digital intervention in a randomised controlled clinical trial are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard D M Stevenson
- Department for Health, The University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Enhad A Chowdhury
- Department for Health, The University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Jesudas Lobo
- Department of Computer Science, The University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Max J Western
- Department for Health, The University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - James L J Bilzon
- Department for Health, The University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK.
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tacey A, Behne J, Patten RK, Ngo MT, Thomas R, Ancilleri J, Bone C, Paredes Castro A, McCarthy H, Harkin K, Gilmartin-Thomas JF, Takla A, Downie C, Mulcahy J, Ball M, Sharples J, Dash S, Lawton A, Wright B, Sleeth P, Kostecki T, Sonn C, McKenna MJ, Apostolopoulos V, Lane R, Said CM, De Gori M, McAinch A, Tran P, Levinger I, Parker A, Woessner MN, Pascoe M. Development of a Digital Health Intervention to Support Patients on a Waitlist for Orthopedic Specialist Care: Co-Design Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e41974. [PMID: 38064257 PMCID: PMC10746964 DOI: 10.2196/41974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The demand for orthopedic specialist consultations for patients with osteoarthritis in public hospitals is high and continues to grow. Lengthy waiting times are increasingly affecting patients from low socioeconomic and culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who are more likely to rely on public health care. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to co-design a digital health intervention for patients with OA who are waiting for an orthopedic specialist consultation at a public health service, which is located in local government areas (LGAs) of identified social and economic disadvantage. METHODS The stakeholders involved in the co-design process included the research team; end users (patients); clinicians; academic experts; senior hospital staff; and a research, design, and development agency. The iterative co-design process comprised several key phases, including the collation and refinement of evidence-based information by the research team, with assistance from academic experts. Structured interviews with 16 clinicians (female: n=10, 63%; male: n=6, 38%) and 11 end users (age: mean 64.3, SD 7.2 y; female: n=7, 64%; male: n=4, 36%) of 1-hour duration were completed to understand the requirements for the intervention. Weekly workshops were held with key stakeholders throughout development. A different cohort of 15 end users (age: mean 61.5, SD 9.7 y; female: n=12, 80%; male: n=3, 20%) examined the feasibility of the study during a 2-week testing period. The System Usability Scale was used as the primary measure of intervention feasibility. RESULTS Overall, 7 content modules were developed and refined over several iterations. Key themes highlighted in the clinician and end user interviews were the diverse characteristics of patients, the hierarchical structure with which patients view health practitioners, the importance of delivering information in multiple formats (written, audio, and visual), and access to patient-centered information as early as possible in the health care journey. All content was translated into Vietnamese, the most widely spoken language following English in the local government areas included in this study. Patients with hip and knee osteoarthritis from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds tested the feasibility of the intervention. A mean System Usability Scale score of 82.7 (SD 16) was recorded for the intervention, placing its usability in the excellent category. CONCLUSIONS Through the co-design process, we developed an evidence-based, holistic, and patient-centered digital health intervention. The intervention was specifically designed to be used by patients from diverse backgrounds, including those with low health, digital, and written literacy levels. The effectiveness of the intervention in improving the physical and mental health of patients will be determined by a high-quality randomized controlled trial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Tacey
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgey, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jack Behne
- Department of Physiotherapy, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rhiannon K Patten
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Minh Truc Ngo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgey, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rees Thomas
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jessica Ancilleri
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chelsea Bone
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Helen McCarthy
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Katherine Harkin
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- First Year College, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Julia Fm Gilmartin-Thomas
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Western Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Amir Takla
- Australian Sports Physiotherapy, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Health Professions, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Physiotherapy, Melbourne School of Health science, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Calum Downie
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jane Mulcahy
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michelle Ball
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jenny Sharples
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sarah Dash
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Amy Lawton
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Breanna Wright
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Peter Sleeth
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tina Kostecki
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Australia
| | - Christopher Sonn
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael J McKenna
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Vasso Apostolopoulos
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lane
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Catherine M Said
- Department of Physiotherapy, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, Australia
- School of Physiotherapy, Melbourne School of Health science, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mary De Gori
- Department of Physiotherapy, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew McAinch
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Phong Tran
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgey, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Itamar Levinger
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alexandra Parker
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mary N Woessner
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michaela Pascoe
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Blake H, Chaplin WJ, Wainwright E, Taylor G, McNamee P, McWilliams D, Abbott-Fleming V, Holmes J, Fecowycz A, Walsh DA, Walker-Bone K. The Web-Based Pain-at-Work Toolkit With Telephone Support for Employees With Chronic or Persistent Pain: Protocol for a Cluster Randomized Feasibility Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e51474. [PMID: 37902814 PMCID: PMC10644198 DOI: 10.2196/51474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic or persistent pain affects one's ability to work or be productive at work, generating high societal and economic burden. However, the provision of work-related advice and support for people with chronic pain is variable or lacking. The Pain-at-Work (PAW) Toolkit was cocreated with people who live with pain, health care professionals, and employers. It aims to increase knowledge about employee rights and how to access support for managing a painful chronic condition in the workplace and provides advice on lifestyle behaviors that facilitate the management of chronic pain. OBJECTIVE We aimed to establish the feasibility of conducting a definitive cluster randomized controlled trial comparing access to the PAW Toolkit and telephone support calls from an occupational therapist (PAW) with treatment as usual (ie, standard support from their employer). Our primary outcomes are establishing parameters of feasibility, acceptability, usability, and safety of this digital workplace health intervention. We will assess the candidate primary and secondary outcomes' feasibility and test research processes for a definitive trial. METHODS This is an open-label, parallel 2-arm pragmatic feasibility cluster randomized controlled trial with exploratory health economics analysis and a nested qualitative interview study. We aim to recruit 120 participants from at least 8 workplace clusters (any type, >10 employees) in England. The recruitment of workplaces occurs via personal approach, and the recruitment of individual participants is web based. Eligible participants are vocationally active adults aged ≥18 years with internet access and self-reporting chronic pain interfering with their ability to undertake or enjoy productive work. A restricted 1:1 cluster-level randomization is used to allocate employment settings to PAW or treatment as usual; participants are unblinded to group allocation. Following site- and individual-level consent, participants complete a web-based baseline survey (time 0), including measures of work capacity, health and well-being, and health care resource use. Follow-up is performed at 3 months (time 1) and 6 months (time 2). Feasibility outcomes relate to recruitment; intervention fidelity (eg, delivery, reach, uptake, and engagement); retention; and follow-up. Qualitative evaluation (time 2) is mapped to the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation-Behavior model and will explore intervention acceptability to employees and employers, along with individual and contextual factors influencing the delivery and uptake of the intervention. RESULTS Ethics approval was obtained in March 2023. Trial recruitment began in June 2023. CONCLUSIONS The PAW Toolkit is the first evidence-based digital health intervention aimed at supporting the self-management of chronic or persistent pain at work. This study will inform the design of a definitive trial, including sample size estimation, approaches to cluster site identification, primary and secondary outcomes' selection, and the final health economic model. Findings will inform approaches for the future delivery of this digital health intervention. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05838677; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05838677. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/51474.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holly Blake
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Wendy J Chaplin
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Elaine Wainwright
- Aberdeen Centre for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Health (Epidemiology Group), School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Gordon Taylor
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Paul McNamee
- Health Economics Research Unit, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel McWilliams
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Academic Unit of Injury, Recovery and Inflammation Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jain Holmes
- Academic Unit of Injury, Recovery and Inflammation Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron Fecowycz
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - David Andrew Walsh
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Academic Unit of Injury, Recovery and Inflammation Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Walker-Bone
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Australia, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Patten RK, Asilioglu A, Levinger I, Tacey A, Pascoe M, Tran P, McKenna MJ, Said CM, Coric N, De Gori M, Lane R, Apostolopoulos V, Woessner MN, Parker A. Prevalence of diagnosable depression in patients awaiting orthopaedic specialist consultation: a cross-sectional analysis. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2023; 24:599. [PMID: 37481532 PMCID: PMC10362723 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-023-06688-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Musculoskeletal conditions, including osteoarthritis (OA), are a leading cause of disability and chronic pain, and are associated with high rates of comorbid depression. However, signs of depression are often masked by pain. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and severity of depression and pain in individuals awaiting specialist orthopaedic consultation. A secondary objective was to determine the relationship between pain and depression, irrespective of demographic factors and clinical diagnosis. METHODS Cross-sectional analysis of individuals awaiting orthopaedic consultation at a public hospital in Melbourne, Australia. Relevant data were extracted from medical records and questionnaires. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise participant characteristics. The patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used to assess depression and a numerical rating scale (NRS) was used to assess pain severity. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to establish the relationship between pain and depression. RESULTS Nine hundred and eighty-six adults (mean ± standard deviation, age = 54.1 ± 15.7 years, 53.2% women) participated in the study. OA was present in 56% of the population and 34% of the entire population had moderate depression or greater, 19% of which met the criteria for major depressive disorder. Moderate-to-severe pain was present in 79% of individuals with OA and 55% of individuals with other musculoskeletal complaints. Pain was significantly associated with depression scores (β = 0.84, adjusted R2 = 0.13, P < 0.001), and this relationship remained significant after accounting for gender, age, education and employment status, OA status, number of joints affected and waiting time (β = 0.91, adjusted R2 = 0.19, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Depression affects one-third of individuals on an orthopaedic waitlist. A strong link between pain and depression in patients awaiting specialist orthopaedic consultation exists, indicating a need for an integrated approach in addressing pain management and depression to manage this complex and comorbid presentation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rhiannon K Patten
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alev Asilioglu
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Itamar Levinger
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Victoria University, University of Melbourne and Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alexander Tacey
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michaela Pascoe
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Phong Tran
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Victoria University, University of Melbourne and Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael J McKenna
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Catherine M Said
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Victoria University, University of Melbourne and Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Physiotherapy, Melbourne School of Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Physiotherapy, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Natali Coric
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mary De Gori
- Physiotherapy, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lane
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Vasso Apostolopoulos
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Victoria University, University of Melbourne and Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mary N Woessner
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Alexandra Parker
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Webb J, Stewart D. Let's Move with Leon. A randomised controlled trial of a UK digital intervention to improve physical activity in people with a musculoskeletal condition. Public Health 2023; 217:125-132. [PMID: 36878121 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2023.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This article presents a real-world evaluation of a digital intervention, 'Let's Move with Leon', designed to improve physical activity and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in people with a musculoskeletal condition. STUDY DESIGN A pragmatic randomised controlled trial. METHODS After randomisation and withdrawals were removed, 184 participants were assigned to receive the digital intervention with 185 assigned to a control group. Self-reported physical activity was the primary outcome. Health-related quality of life, the number of days completing strength-based exercises per week, the capability, opportunity, and motivation to be active, and step count were secondary outcomes. Outcomes were assessed over 4, 8 and 13 weeks. RESULTS Significant improvements were seen for self-reported physical activity at 13 weeks, reported strength days at 8 weeks, perceptions of physical capability and automatic motivation to be active at 4 and 8 weeks. No improvements were seen in step count or HRQoL over the control group. CONCLUSION Digital interventions such as 'Let's Move with Leon' have the potential to increase physical activity in people with a musculoskeletal condition; however, improvements are likely to be small. Small improvements in physical activity may not be enough to improve HRQoL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin Webb
- School of Social Sciences and Professions, London Metropolitan University, 166-220 Holloway Rd, London, N7 8DB, UK.
| | - Duncan Stewart
- School of Social Sciences and Professions, London Metropolitan University, 166-220 Holloway Rd, London, N7 8DB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kiadaliri A, Dell’Isola A, Lohmander LS, Hunter DJ, Dahlberg LE. Assessing the importance of predictors of adherence to a digital self‑management intervention for osteoarthritis. J Orthop Surg Res 2023; 18:97. [PMID: 36782324 PMCID: PMC9926753 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-023-03562-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Treatment adherence is suggested to be associated with greater improvement in patient outcomes. Despite the growing use of digital therapeutics in osteoarthritis management, there is limited evidence of person-level factors influencing adherence to these interventions in real-world settings. We aimed to determine the relative importance of factors influencing adherence to a digital self-management intervention for hip/knee osteoarthritis. METHODS We obtained data from people participating in a digital OA treatment, known as Joint Academy, between January 2019 and September 2021. We collected data on the participants' adherence, defined as the percentage of completed activities (exercises, lessons, and quizzes), at 3 (n = 14,610)- and 12-month (n = 2682) follow-up. We used dominance and relative weight analyses to assess the relative importance of sociodemographic (age, sex, place of residence, education, year of enrolment), lifestyle (body mass index, physical activity), general health (comorbidity, overall health, activity impairment, anxiety/depression), and osteoarthritis-related (index joint, fear of moving, walking difficulties, pain, physical function, wish for surgery, Patient Acceptable Symptom State) factors, measured at baseline, in explaining variations in adherence. We used bootstrap (1000 replications) to compute 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS Mean (SD) adherences at 3 and 12 months were 86.3% (16.1) and 84.1% (16.7), with 75.1% and 70.4% of participants reporting an adherence ≥ 80%, respectively. The predictors included in the study explained only 5.6% (95% CI 5.1, 6.6) and 8.1% (7.3, 11.6) of variations in 3- and 12-month adherences, respectively. Sociodemographic factors were the most important predictors explaining more variations than other factors altogether. Among single factors, age with a nonlinear relationship with adherence, was the most important predictor explaining 2.3% (95% CI 1.9, 2.8) and 3.7% (2.4, 5.3) of variations in 3- and 12-month adherences, respectively. CONCLUSION Person-level factors could only modestly explain the variations in adherence with sociodemographic characteristics, mainly age, accounting for the greatest portion of this explained variance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Kiadaliri
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Orthopedics, Lund University, Lund, Sweden. .,Centre for Economic Demography, Lund University, Lund, Sweden. .,Arthro Therapeutics, Malmö, Sweden. .,Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Skåne University Hospital, Remissgatan 4, 221 85, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Andrea Dell’Isola
- grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Orthopedics, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - L. Stefan Lohmander
- Arthro Therapeutics, Malmö, Sweden ,grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Orthopedics, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - David J. Hunter
- grid.1013.30000 0004 1936 834XSydney Musculoskeletal Health, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Leif E. Dahlberg
- Arthro Therapeutics, Malmö, Sweden ,grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Orthopedics, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Rodríguez Sánchez-Laulhé P, Biscarri-Carbonero Á, Suero-Pineda A, Luque-Romero LG, Barrero García FJ, Blanquero J, Heredia-Rizo AM. The effects of a mobile app-delivered intervention in people with symptomatic hand osteoarthritis: a pragmatic randomized controlled trial. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2023; 59:54-64. [PMID: 36633498 PMCID: PMC10035439 DOI: 10.23736/s1973-9087.22.07744-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exercise therapy, self-management and education are recommended interventions for hand osteoarthritis (OA), but new delivery systems are needed to solve lack of adherence. AIM To determine the effects on hand function and pain related measures of a mobile app-delivered intervention, compared with usual care, in patients with symptomatic hand OA. DESIGN A pragmatic, multicenter, two-group parallel randomized controlled trial. SETTING Community health centers in rural southern Spain. POPULATION Eighty-three participants with unilateral or bilateral symptomatic hand OA were proposed to participate, and finally 74 were included and randomized. METHODS Participants received a home multimodal treatment (exercise, education, and self-management recommendations) with the CareHand mobile app or usual care (written exercises) over 12 weeks. Monthly telephone calls were performed to monitor adherence. The primary outcome was hand physical function (Australian/Canadian Hand Osteoarthritis Index, AUSCAN) at 3- and 6-months. Secondary measures included hand pain intensity and morning stiffness, upper limb function, hand dexterity, and grip and pinch strength. RESULTS The CareHand group showed significant within-group changes in hand function at 6-months (-3.0, 95% CI -5.1 to -0.9 vs. usual care: -0.9, 95% CI -3.3 to 1.5). Neither group showed improvements in hand function at 3-months (CareHand: -1.5, 95% CI -3.1 to 0.1; usual care: -0.5, 95% CI -2.7 to 1.7). For the secondary outcomes, the CareHand group showed better results on upper limb function both at 3- and 6-months, and on pain both at 1- and 3-months compared to usual care group. Linear regression models indicated that baseline scores of pain intensity, hand status, and upper limb function were associated with a greater improvement in hand pain and physical function. CONCLUSIONS A mobile app-delivered intervention is effective for improving hand function, and better than usual care for upper limb function and pain. Further research is warranted to understand the impact of mobile health (mHealth) in people with hand OA. CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT mHealth interventions are a feasible and secure multimodal delivery approach in older adults with hand OA in rural primary care setting. Baseline pain and upper limb function might predict functional hand outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Rodríguez Sánchez-Laulhé
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain -
- Uncertainty, Mindfulness, Self, and Spirituality (UMSS) Research Group, University of Seville, Seville, Spain -
| | | | - Alejandro Suero-Pineda
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Luis G Luque-Romero
- Research Unit, Aljarafe-Sevilla North Health District, Andalusian Health Service, Seville, Spain
- Department of Normal and Pathological Cytology and Histology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | | | - Jesús Blanquero
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Alberto M Heredia-Rizo
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
- Uncertainty, Mindfulness, Self, and Spirituality (UMSS) Research Group, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
The impact of waiting time for orthopaedic consultation on pain levels in individuals with osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2022; 30:1561-1574. [PMID: 35961505 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2022.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Time spent waiting for access to orthopaedic specialist health services has been suggested to result in increased pain in individuals with osteoarthritis (OA). We assessed whether time spent on an orthopaedic waiting list resulted in a detrimental effect on pain levels in patients with knee or hip OA. METHODS We searched Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE and EBSCOhost databases from inception until September 2021. Eligible articles included individuals with OA on an orthopaedic waitlist and not receiving active treatment, and reported pain measures at two or more time points. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to estimate the pooled effect of waiting time on pain levels. Meta-regression was used to determine predictors of effect size. RESULTS Thirty-three articles were included (n = 2,490 participants, 67 ± 3 years and 62% female). The range of waiting time was 2 weeks to 2 years (20.8 ± 18.8 weeks). There was no significant change in pain over time (effect size = 0.082, 95% CI = -0.009, 0.172), nor was the length of time associated with longitudinal changes in pain over time (β = 0.004, 95% CI = -0.005, 0.012). Body mass index was a significant predictor of pain (β = -0.043, 95% CI = -0.079, 0.006), whereas age and sex were not. CONCLUSIONS Pain remained stable for up to 1 year in patients with OA on an orthopaedic waitlist. Future research is required to understand whether pain increases in patients waiting longer than 1 year.
Collapse
|
14
|
Wang W, Niu Y, Jia Q. Physical therapy as a promising treatment for osteoarthritis: A narrative review. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1011407. [PMID: 36311234 PMCID: PMC9614272 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1011407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent joint disease and a leading cause of disability in older adults. With an increasing population ageing and obesity, OA is becoming even more prevalent than it was in previous decades. Evidence indicates that OA is caused by the breakdown of joint tissues from mechanical loading and inflammation, but the deeper underlying mechanism of OA pathogenesis remains unclear, hindering efforts to prevent and treat this disease. Pharmacological treatments are mostly related to relieving symptoms, and there is no drug for radical cure. However, compelling evidence suggests that regular practice of resistance exercise may prevent and control the development of several musculoskeletal chronic diseases including OA, which may result in improved quality of life of the patients. In this review, we introduced the current understanding of the mechanism and clinical treatments of OA pathogenesis. We also reviewed the recent study of physical therapy in the treatment of skeletal system disorders, especially in OA. Finally, we discuss the present challenges and promising advantages of physical therapy in OA treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- School of Physical Education, Anyang Normal University, Anyang, China
- Anyang Key Laboratory of Fitness Training and Assessment, Anyang Normal University, Anyang, China
| | - Yonggang Niu
- School of Physical Education, Anyang Normal University, Anyang, China
- Anyang Key Laboratory of Fitness Training and Assessment, Anyang Normal University, Anyang, China
| | - Qingxiu Jia
- School of Physical Education, Anyang Normal University, Anyang, China
- Anyang Key Laboratory of Fitness Training and Assessment, Anyang Normal University, Anyang, China
- *Correspondence: Qingxiu Jia,
| |
Collapse
|