"Improvements from the physiotherapy motivates me to continue the treatment" - Qualitative Study on Quality Indicators of Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis undergoing Physiotherapy

Method

A qualitative design was implemented, utilizing a phenomenological approach. A purposive sampling technique was employed to recruit 15 patients with knee osteoarthritis (PKOA). Demographic data, socio-economic status, and disease-related data were collected from a PKOA.

Audio-recorded and verbatim transcribed one-on-one, semi-structured interviews were conducted in person or via telephone. Deductive thematic analysis was implemented to analyze the data. Results: Four themes were identified, such as facilitators, inhibitors, experiences, and perceptions.

Under these primary themes, 28 sub-themes were developed. The facilitators and inhibitors of physiotherapy for knee OA, including personal, physical, mental, social, economic, organizational, and health-related factors, were investigated, as PKOA had varying perspectives and experiences regarding knee OA and physiotherapy. Discussion: Despite the constraints of time and access, PKOA maintained a positive attitude and experience with physiotherapy.

Physiotherapy rehabilitation is influenced by both physical and social environments, which serve as both facilitators and inhibitors. Reduced exercise adherence among PKOA is a consequence of financial constraints, a lack of awareness, and treatment efficacy. This can be mitigated by implementing a customized exercise protocol, providing booster session, and regular follow-ups through tele-rehabilitation in India, which serves as an essential rehabilitation method.