Can a Text Message Alleviate Knee Pain?

Summer months offer opportunities to get more active to reduce pain and improve strength. People with joint pain should consider physical exercise to help their overall well-being.

A new study shows patients who received text messages encouraging them to exercise had better outcomes related to knee pain.

Exercise Accountability Helps Joint Pain and Osteoarthritis

Rachel Nelligan, a PhD candidate and physiotherapist at the Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine at the University of Melbourne in Australia, says that there are several reasons that people with arthritis don’t exercise. It is difficult to find good treatment, and it is challenging to stay motivated when exercise is painful.

Nelligan conducted a randomized clinical trial on 180 patients with knee osteoarthritis to determine how motivation affects exercise and pain relief.

All participants had access to a free website that gave information about arthritis and emphasized the importance of being physically active. Half of the patients received a prescription for a 24-week exercise program supplemented by automated text messages that encouraged them to keep exercising. The other half of the patients did not receive the same resources.

Not surprisingly, the patients who were in the intervention group showed improved mobility and decreased knee pain.

“People who had used the intervention group website and text message support told us the clear exercise instructions provided on the website enabled them to master the exercises without needing health professional input,” Nelligan said. “They also said the regular text message support was an important part of the program providing weekly exercise reminders and exercise motivation, as well as keeping them accountable to the program for the 24 weeks.”

Find an Orthopedist to Manage Joint Pain

If you have osteoarthritis or suffer from joint pain, it essential to exercise regularly. Now that the weather is warmer, you can enjoy outdoor activities like walking, biking and swimming.

One of the best ways to stay motivated is to visit your doctor for accountability. A board-certified orthopedist can help you create a safe exercise program to reduce joint pain and maintain mobility. It may be time for you to talk to your doctor about a knee replacement or a hip replacement. Click here to find an orthopedic surgery center near you.