Abstract
BackgroundSelf-management (SM) programs are effective for some chronic conditions, however the evidence for arthritis SM is inconclusive. The aim of this case series project was to determine whether a newly developed specific self-management program for people with osteoarthritis of the knee (OAK), implemented by health professionals could achieve and maintain clinically meaningful improvements.MethodsParticipants: 79 participants enrolled; mean age 66, with established osteoarthritis of the knee. People with coexisting inflammatory joint disease or serious co-morbidities were excluded.Intervention: 6-week disease (OA) and site (knee) specific self-management education program that included disease education, exercise advice, information on healthy lifestyle and relevant information within the constructs of self-management. This program was conducted in a community health care setting and was delivered by health professionals thereby utilising their knowledge and expertise.Measurements: Pain, physical function and mental health scales were assessed at baseline, 8 weeks, 6 and 12 months using WOMAC and SF-36 questionnaires. Changes in pain during the 8-week intervention phase were monitored with VAS.ResultsPain improved during the intervention phase: mean (95% CI) change 15 (8 to 22) mm. Improvements (0.3 to 0.5 standard deviation units) in indices of pain, mental health and physical functioning, assessed by SF-36 and WOMAC questionnaires were demonstrated from baseline to 12 months.ConclusionThis disease and site-specific self-management education program improved health status of people with osteoarthritis of the knee in the short and medium term.
Highlights
Self-management (SM) programs are effective for some chronic conditions, the evidence for arthritis SM is inconclusive
Improvements (0.3 to 0.5 standard deviation units) in indices of pain, mental health and physical functioning, assessed by Short Form 36 Version questionnaire (SF-36) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) questionnaires were demonstrated from baseline to 12 months
The majority of self-management interventions are led by health professionals (HP) in a group setting where all participants are affected by the same condition
Summary
Self-management (SM) programs are effective for some chronic conditions, the evidence for arthritis SM is inconclusive The aim of this case series project was to determine whether a newly developed specific self-management program for people with osteoarthritis of the knee (OAK), implemented by health professionals could achieve and maintain clinically meaningful improvements. Complementary to conventional medical care, self-management interventions are considered to be beneficial in the management of people with chronic illness [2,3]. These interventions are designed to assist people to effectively manage their condition (between physicians visits), by teaching them how to cope with their symptoms, including the physical and psychological consequences of living with a chronic disease. When all members of a group have the same condition, all components of the intervention can be tailored to the specific needs of the group
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
