Cross-Sectional Evaluation of a Physiotherapist-Led Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis Program: Perceived Benefits and Factors that Influence Patient Access and Adherence

Watson, Nikole ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2759-924X, Legg, Hayley S ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4995-2091, Irvine, Alison, Sawatsky, Rebecca and Bath, Brenna (2026) Cross-Sectional Evaluation of a Physiotherapist-Led Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis Program: Perceived Benefits and Factors that Influence Patient Access and Adherence. Journal of Patient Experience, 13. doi:10.1177/23743735261462001 (In Press)

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Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) affects millions of Canadians with substantial healthcare costs, yet education and exercise can improve outcomes. This study explored the perceived benefits, facilitators, and barriers influencing perceived access and adherence to an 8-week physiotherapist-supervised exercise and education program in a private clinic. Adults with hip and/or knee OA enrolled in the program were invited to complete a cross-sectional online survey. Descriptive statistics and qualitative content analyses were used to describe participant demographics, clinical features, and perceptions. Of 102 participants, 61 completed the survey (60% response rate). Perceived benefits identified by participants included physical improvements, socialization, increased confidence, expert support, and improved self-efficacy. Perceived facilitators supporting adherence were physical ability, financial support, transportation, and provider expertise. While most participants reported no major barriers, some noted financial constraints, physical limitations, inconvenient class times, and work demands. A group-based hip and knee OA program delivered by physiotherapists can provide substantial perceived physical, psychological, and social benefits, though self-reported adherence may be influenced by financial, physical, and social factors. Plain Language Summary Why did we do this study? Osteoarthritis (OA) can cause pain and make daily activities difficult. While supervised exercise and education programs can help, we wanted to understand the patient experience. We wanted to understand directly from patients with hip and knee arthritis what they felt were the benefits of a physiotherapist-led group program, as well as what made it easier to attend and what challenges got in the way. How did we do this study? We invited adults with hip or knee OA who were enrolled in an 8-week group program at a private-practice clinic to complete an online survey about their experiences. We asked about the positive changes they noticed and what helped or hindered their ability to stick with the program. What did we find? Participants reported benefits beyond just physical improvements. While they felt stronger and moved more easily, they also highlighted the value of social connection with others in the group. Many felt more confident and less afraid of their pain. The expert guidance from physiotherapists was crucial for helping them feel safe and motivated. Facilitators included physical ability, financial support from health insurance, and reliable transportation. The most common challenges were the program’s cost, especially after insurance benefits ran out. Other barriers included pain and class times conflicting with work schedules. What does this mean? Group exercise programs led by physiotherapists can provide whole-person care, helping patients physically, socially, and emotionally. For these programs to help more people, our findings show we must address practical challenges like program cost and scheduling flexibility.

Item Type:	Article
Article Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	osteoarthritis; patient experience; physiotherapy; group exercise; adherence; health services accessibility
Subjects:	G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GV Recreation Leisure Q Science > QP Physiology
Divisions:	Schools and Research Institutes > School of Education, Health and Sciences
Depositing User:	Charlotte Crutchlow
Date Deposited:	30 Jun 2026 14:12
Last Modified:	30 Jun 2026 14:30
URI:	https://eprints.glos.ac.uk/id/eprint/16404

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