A REMOTE-DELIVERED MIND-BODY INTERVENTION FOR KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS PATIENTS DURING THE PANDEMIC: A QUALITATIVE STUDY

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The aims of this study were to explore the feasibility and perceived benefits of a remotely delivered Tai Chi mind-body Intervention compared with a wellness education intervention for Knee OA during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: In our randomized controlled trial, patients who met the ACR criteria for Knee OA were randomized to either a Tai Chi or Wellness Education group and attended 12 weeks of biweekly remote sessions. Semi-structured interviews were audio and videotaped via Zoom or telephone and ranged from 15-20 minutes in length. Interview questions were designed to ensure the exploration of key themes and were tailored for each intervention. Eleven key themes, including perceived benefits, social interaction and engagement, remote administration, and COVID-19 related experiences were identified and analyzed. Results: Thirty-two patients completed interviews. The mean participant age was 66 years, with 65% female. Consensus suggested remote delivery of the intervention was a well-adapted remedy for Knee OA. Specifically, the Tai Chi group reported pain reduction, improved walking ability;the Wellness group incorporated improved knowledge of healthy living skills into their daily routines. Both groups found therapeutic value in the interventions, such as direct benefits of Tai Chi, and indirect benefits of social interaction during an isolating time. Participants also reported enhanced ability to manage stress surrounding the pandemic. Most interviewees expressed general satisfaction. Several key barriers to treating Knee OA were identified, such as difficulty tailoring instructions to individual patients and providing direct feedback. Conclusions: This study confirmed the feasibility of a remote-delivered behavioral intervention for Knee OA during the pandemic. Despite the challenges of this novel experience, the perceived intervention benefits are comparable to those found in prior, in-person studies. Non-pharmacological methods of treating Knee OA, including remote delivery of education and mind-body approaches, are effective ways of managing Knee OA symptoms.