Abstract:
Physical activity is the most commonly discussed non-pharmacological treatment strategy for
the self-management of osteoarthritis. However, physical inactivity is observed amongst patients
due to various reasons such as physical limitations, chronic pain and obesity. It is one of the key
factors defining the mortality rate of patients with osteoarthritis. Numerous issues with current
practices in the self-care of osteoarthritis such as, lack of personalization, knowledge and
professional support, inability to attend therapies/classes and unsupportive social background have
led patients adopting a sedentary lifestyle. This research focuses on addressing the issues of patients
with and/or at the risk of knee osteoarthritis. In designing an effective intervention various factors
including, barriers and facilitators for physical activity engagement, assessment of the disease, and
recommended dosage of activities were analyzed using existing literature. The findings were further
validated via interviews with medical professionals and the questionnaires distributed among
patients. The results indicate the necessity to consider personal preferences, ample support and
social settings, in the design of physical activity interventions. Further, reflects the need for patient
education to invalidate misconceptions perceived by patients. Thus, considering the identified
factors, a mobile physical activity intervention has been designed and developed for the selfmanagement
of osteoarthritis. It is a holistic solution for the self-management of osteoarthritis,
providing not only activity prescriptions but also tracking of progress and outcomes, supportive
educational materials and teleconsultation facilities.
