ABSTRACT
Aims: Osteoarthritis is the most common disabling disorder affecting particularly knees. A recent systematic review demonstrated the efficacy of walking programs for improving pain, functional status, endurance, and quality of life, in the management of knee osteoarthritis. Even though evidence suggests that walking provides numerous clinical benefits, older people diagnosed with osteoarthritis avoid physical activity. General objective is to evaluate the effect of participants’ exercise preference. We expect to encourage osteoarthritis participants to adhere successfully to a proven effective walking program. Study Design: This is a 9-month supervised walking program with a 3-month follow-up period using a preference trial design which consists of three single blind randomized clinical trials, based on a participant exercise preference model, to elicit preferences independently of randomization. Place and Duration: Indoor Walking Club in the City of Ottawa, Billings Bridge Shopping Centre, next door to The Arthritis Society Ottawa office. Methodology: A total of 69 participants with a confirmed diagnosis of osteoarthritis of the knee will be recruited from the general public from the Ottawa area. We are implementing a knowledge translation strategy, in order to improve adherence and consequently ensure the maintenance of pain relief, functional status and quality of life, among older individuals diagnosed with mild to moderate osteoarthritis. This article summarizes the study protocol of the walking study, by explaining the methods and interventions selected and discussing on the need for this trial. Conclusion: This proposed pilot randomized controlled trial will address a new knowledge gap by concentring on questions of clinical and scientific importance to improve the understanding related to the efficacy of strategies to promote the adoption and long-term adherence of community-based walking programs.