Exploring knee osteoarthritis patients’ views of talking about weight with health professionals

Abstract

Background: By 2030, it is estimated that sixty per cent of the world’s adult population could be obese. Overweight or obese is a risk factor for osteoarthritis, notably knee osteoarthritis (KO). Key policy documents recommend that health professionals (HPs) provide weight management support and target weight loss in KO patients which eases symptoms. However, we know that HPs find discussions about weight challenging and if they are to assume a greater role in weight management understanding the patient perspective will help to facilitate this role change and improve HP-patient communication. Little is known about weight management communication between HPs and KO patients and what factors facilitate and inhibit these discussions. This study will therefore be undertaken in order to gain a better understanding of this process. Methods: 25 semi-structured interviews were carried out with patients who have KO and a BMI of over 25. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: Patients actively desire weight management support from their health professionals but limited discussions leave them frustrated and hopeless. When discussing weight patients wanted HPs to consider their personal story and responded positively to both empathy and sensitivity. Patients’ knowledge of KO varied and they expressed faulty illness perceptions e.g. that exercise damages the joints further. Discussion: Patients can be motivated by HPs to lose weight but at present receive limited support. Providing further training to HPs would help them address this sensitive topic and may play an important role in helping patients manage KO symptoms.