What do patients with hip or knee osteoarthritis expect from physiotherapy treatment? Preliminary results of a qualitative study

Introduction: Physiotherapy has been proven effective in reducing pain and improving physical functioning in patients with hip (HOA) or knee (KOA) osteoarthritis. Whereas the literature shows that patients’ expectations of treatment can influence its outcomes, knowledge on patient expectations of physiotherapy for HOA or KOA is scarce. This study therefore aims to explore the expectations of patients with hip or knee OA with regard to physiotherapy treatment and factors influencing these expectations. Methods: Semi structured interviews with patients with HOA or KOA referred to a physiotherapist by a general practitioner or orthopaedic surgeon, were executed before the start of treatment. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling. The interviews were conducted using a topic guide, including expectations on the outcomes and on the structure and process of the delivery of physiotherapy and on internal and external factors that contributed to these expectations. Data collection continued until saturation was achieved. Thematic analysis was performed by open and axial coding. Results: The preliminary results were obtained from the fi rst nine participants who were interviewed. Their median age was 72 years, 2 participants were male, 7 had knee OA, and 2 were referred by a general practitioner. Regarding their expectations on outcomes, participants mentioned pain reduction and improved ability to move. With respect to the delivery, participants reported active therapy and supervision of exercises by the physiotherapist. Some participants expected their personal history to be taken into account as well as their current personal situation. Furthermore, the use of equipment such as exercise bikes or other devices were mentioned. Regarding factors that played a role in expectations, general knowledge and significant others with OA or who received physiotherapy for other conditions were reported.