Authors (including presenting author) :
Chan CYK(1), Leung NC(1), Lui TC(1), Leung KY(1), Fung MLE(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Occupational Therapy Department, Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital (AHNH)
Introduction :
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common condition that significantly affects daily functioning and quality of life. While traditional treatments primarily focus on symptom management, holistic approaches are increasingly recognized for their benefits.
This study investigates the effectiveness of lifestyle and psychosocial interventions, led by occupational therapists, for knee OA patients. The intervention includes mind-body activity, activity modifications, and coping techniques. By addressing both physical and psychosocial factors, it empowers patients to actively manage pain and enhance overall well-being.
Objectives :
To evaluate the effectiveness of lifestyle and psychosocial interventions in knee OA patients.
Methodology :
Participants with knee OA were referred from the Fanling Family Medicine Specialist Clinic. Following an initial consultation, participants were enrolled in a 5-week lifestyle redesign program. Each weekly session, lasting 90 minutes, included education on knee OA, joint protection, pacing strategies, Health Qigong, and lifestyle modification.
Outcomes were assessed using the Life Functioning Assessment Inventory (L-FAI) and the Chinese Pain Self Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ-HK). Data were collected at baseline and after the final session. L-FAI is a semi-structured interview evaluating life functions in work, social, leisure, and homemaking. It uses a 10-level scale based on activity complexity, contribution, and priority to the interviewee.
Data were analyzed using SPSS. Baseline and post-intervention scores for L-FAI and PSEQ-HK were compared using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and paired t-tests, with significance set at p<0.05.
Result & Outcome :
Fifty-five participants (14 males, 41 females) completed the program between 10/2023 and 11/2024, with an average age of 68.1 years (SD=6.33). L-FAI scores showed significant improvements in leisure (p<0.001) and social domains (p=0.025), while homemaking and work domains remained stable. The PSEQ-HK score increased from 37.0 to 42.6, indicating significant improvement in self-efficacy in managing pain (p<0.001).
This study shows that lifestyle and psychosocial interventions are effective in enhancing life functioning, particularly in leisure and social domains, as well as improving self-efficacy in managing pain in knee OA patients. By equipping patients with coping strategies and lifestyle modifications, the program helps maintain their independence and participation in community and may reduce unnecessary medical consultations.
