Factors associated with physical activity in Australians with hip or knee osteoarthritis

Abstract

Background: Physical activity (PA) is recommended for managing osteoarthritis (OA). However, few people with OA are physically active. Understanding the factors associated with PA is necessary to increase PA in this population. This cross-sectional study examined factors associated with leisure-time PA, stretching exercises, and strengthening exercises in people with
OA. Methods: For a mail survey, 485 individuals, aged 68.0 y (SD=10.6) with hip or knee OA,
were asked about factors that may influence PA participation, including use of non-PA OA
management strategies and both psychological and physical health-related factors. Associations
between factors and each PA outcome were examined in multivariable logistic regression
models. Results: Non-PA management strategies were the main factors associated with the
outcomes. Information/education courses, heat/cold treatments, and paracetamol were associated
with stretching and strengthening exercises (P<0.05). Hydrotherapy and magnet therapy were
associated with leisure-time PA; using orthotics and massage therapy, with stretching exercises;
and occupational therapy, with strengthening exercises (P<0.05). Few psychological or health15
related factors were associated with the outcomes. Conclusions: Some management strategies
may make it easier for people with OA to be physically active, and could be promoted to
encourage PA. Providers of strategies are potential avenues for recruiting people with OA into
PA programs.