Experiences with health behavior change and perceived needs for digital support in adults with hip and knee osteoarthritis: a qualitative study

Authors Britt van Dongen, Amber Ronteltap, Corelien Kloek, Loek Veerkamp, Catherine Bolman, Rik Crutzen
Published in BMC Rheumatology
Publication date 13 oktober 2026
Research groups Innovatie van Beweegzorg
Type Article

Summary

Hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA) are increasingly prevalent among older adults and often impair daily functioning. Current OA treatment guidelines emphasize the importance of self-management, particularly through improving physical activity, weight management, and sleep. Although these behaviors are essential for effective OA management, many individuals experience barriers to adopting and maintaining them. To help patients overcome these challenges, support needs to be tailored to their individual needs. Digital interventions offer the potential to deliver personalized support if informed by users’ experiences and needs. Therefore, this study examines the experiences and perceived needs of individuals with OA regarding behavior change in physical activity, weight management, and sleep supported by a digital intervention.

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Language Engels
Published in BMC Rheumatology
Key words osteoarthritis, physical activity, weight management, sleep, digital intervention, self management, qualitative study
Digital Object Identifier 10.1186/s41927-026-00702-3

Britt van Dongen

Portretfoto Britt van Dongen

Britt van Dongen

  • PhD candidate
  • Research group: Innovatie van Beweegzorg