mHealth Intervention for the Self-Management of Osteoarthritis in Preventing Sedentary Behaviour

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.