Shared decision making in early knee osteoarthritis: A qualitative study of older adults and healthcare providers

Purpose: Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is the most common form of disabling arthritis. Up to 50% of people in the US develop OA by age 85. Physical activity, weight loss, and medical management are effective, low-cost means for managing early knee OA but integration of these approaches into routine clinical care lags. Use of Decision Aids (DAs) and Shared Decision Making (SDM)—defined as “an approach where clinicians and patients share the best available evidence ⋯ and patients are supported to consider options to achieve informed preferences” may improve health outcomes in patients with early knee OA.
Source: Osteoarthritis and Cartilage - Category: Rheumatology Authors: Source Type: research