Physical activity, education, and weight loss in knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review of qualitative studies on patients’, caregivers’, and professionals’ experiences
Authors' conclusion
This review emphasizes the importance of perceptions and a personalized, patient-centered approach. Highlighting remaining abilities and non-pharmacological interventions empowers patients, whereas a fatalistic view of joint wear hinders engagement.
Study context
- Population
- Patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA), healthcare providers and family caregivers; qualitative studies published 2001–2024 (PubMed, Cochrane, Pascal and Francis, Public Health Database)75 studies
- Outcome
- Experiences regarding exercise, weight reduction, education and self-management programs
Methodological detailsthematic synthesis, Critical Appraisal Skills Program checklist
- Thematic synthesis
- Critical Appraisal Skills Program checklist
Pooled result
As reported in the abstract
- Barriers: fatalistic view of knee OA as inevitable degenerative process, providers' doubts about patient engagement, perception of non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) as ineffective or harmful
- Facilitators: optimistic view of remaining abilities, recognition of physical activity and weight management benefits, supportive approaches (patient-centered care, professional supervision, peer support)
- Recognizing each professional's role in multidisciplinary care enhanced NPI implementation
- Patient-centered education programs combining exercise and weight control provided physical, psychological and social benefits
- Enhancing professional skills and optimizing resources essential to strengthen NPI uptake
- Included studies involved 1,313 patients, 389 healthcare providers and 46 family caregivers
Original publication
Physical activity, education, and weight loss in knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review of qualitative studies on patients’, caregivers’, and professionals’ experiences. Joint Bone Spine. Published 19 March 2026. doi:10.
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