Perceptions, Experiences and Management of Knee Symptoms in Adults Age 35-65 Years - A Qualitative Study

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a highly prevalent and costly chronic condition which can begin as early as the third or fourth decade of life. To date, interventions have focused on older adults. There is an urgent need to focus on younger adults with OA symptoms to improve management and potentially limit progression of OA. However, there is an inadequate understanding of the perceptions, experiences and management of younger adults to begin to develop interventions which address peoples’ needs earlier in life. Objectives: To explore, in adults aged 35-65 years with knees symptoms: 1) the meaning of knee symptoms to people; 2) how people manage knee symptoms; and 3) the consequences of knee symptoms on peoples’ lives. Methods: Six focus groups and 10 one-on-one interviews were conducted with 51 participants (median age 49; 61% female) who self-reported knee OA or reported knee symptoms (i.e. pain, aching or stiffness) on most days of the past month. Constructivist grounded theory guided sampling, data collection and analysis. Data were analyzed using a constant comparative method, in which comparisons constituted each stage of analysis. Results: Central to participants’ understanding of their knee symptoms was a perception that symptoms were preventable, meaning there was the potential to prevent the onset of symptoms and to alter the course of symptoms. Their approach to management was not linear, but rather, a process that moved back and forth between searching for “solutions” and active management (ongoing use of strategies). During the process, participants consulted health care providers but often perceived that medical care offered limited options and guidance. Participants experienced a range of disruptions and changes in their lives due to knee symptoms. They described the consequences of symptoms on their physical activity, social life and emotions. Participants reported a new awareness of their knee, a lack of trust in their knee and that their sense of self was altered. Conclusions: This study provides new insights into the perceptions and experiences of adults age 35-65 years with knee symptoms. Findings have implications for the development of health policies and interventions to support primary and secondary prevention of knee symptoms.Ph.D.2017-07-08 00:00:0