Video-based, telehealth-delivered exercise and weight loss programs with online educational support improved pain and function in 416 Australians (mean age, 65; about half, women) with knee osteoarthritis who were also overweight or obese. The intervention that included a dietary component conferred modest additional pain and function benefits but led to substantial weight loss.

During the trial, participants in the intervention groups were provided support from physical therapists and dietitians via Zoom and had a suite of educational resources available online. Those in the exercise plus diet group also received meal replacements so they could maintain a ketogenic, low-calorie diet.

More specifically, the exercise program included six videoconferencing consultations with a physical therapist for exercise, self-management advice, and behavioral counseling, plus equipment and resources. The diet and exercise program included an additional six dietitian consultations for the ketogenic diet followed by a transition to healthy eating, as well as nutrition and behavioral resources.

At six months, the researchers found that compared to controls, participants in both intervention programs had significant improvements in knee pain, physical function, and quality of life, which were maintained in the longer-term.

Compared to the exercise only program, the combined exercise and diet program led to additional benefits – including a greater reduction in pain, greater improvements in physical function, lower use of pain medications, and an average weight loss of 22 lbs. over the course of the program. According to the researchers, these findings suggest that telehealth programs represent potentially scalable and accessible ways for people with knee osteoarthritis to receive recommended interventions.

To read the study abstract, click here

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