Knowledge Translation and Exercise for Degenerative Meniscal Tears and Early Osteoarthritis: the KNEE-DEeP Feasibility Study

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a new approach called the KNEE-DEeP intervention to improve care for adults aged 35 to 69 who experience knee pain caused by degenerative meniscal tears or early osteoarthritis. This condition is common in middle-aged and older adults, and although exercise is recommended, many patients currently receive surgery referrals instead of physiotherapy. The study aims to test whether the KNEE-DEeP program can be delivered as planned and is acceptable to patients, general practitioners (GPs), and physiotherapists before conducting a larger trial. The intervention involves training GPs and physiotherapists through educational workshops to enhance their consultations and care delivery. Patients will receive an 'enhanced consultation' from their GP, including a physical exam, education, written information, and a treatment plan. They will also have early access to a single 'best practice' physiotherapy session focusing on self-management strategies, goal setting, and exercise prescription within two weeks of referral. The study is a single-arm feasibility trial conducted in general practices and a hospital physiotherapy department in Ireland. Participants will be followed for six months with assessments at the start, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks. Researchers will collect data on physical function, knee pain, pain self-efficacy, fear avoidance beliefs, quality of life, satisfaction with care, exercise adherence, healthcare use, and pain medication changes. Questionnaires and interviews with patients, GPs, and physiotherapists will evaluate the intervention's acceptability and feasibility. The total study duration for each patient is six months, with recruitment planned over six months and completion expected 12 months after starting.

Knowledge Translation and Exercise for Degenerative Meniscal Tears and Early Osteoarthritis: KNEE-DEeP Study