The researchers studied 812 individuals with osteoarthritis in their hips and/or knees. The sample was separated in to two groups, those who were placed on a six-session arthritis self-management programme and education booklet, the those who received the booklet only.
The individuals on the self-management programme experienced a reduction in anxiety levels, but neither group showed a reduction in pain.
The authors concluded that: ‘There is little doubt that self-management techniques provide some benefit for those with chronic or long-term conditions. However, there is currently insufficient evidence to justify a policy of active recruitment of patients from the primary care setting.’
The individuals on the self-management programme experienced a reduction in anxiety levels, but neither group showed a reduction in pain.
The authors concluded that: ‘There is little doubt that self-management techniques provide some benefit for those with chronic or long-term conditions. However, there is currently insufficient evidence to justify a policy of active recruitment of patients from the primary care setting.’
