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Abstract Number: 2844

A Mixed-Methods Feasibility Study Exploring the Cultural Adaptation of Walk with Ease to the United Kingdom

Kathryn R Martin1,2, Toby O Smith3, Santosh Gaihre4, Gary J Macfarlane1,2, Aileen Neilson5, Paul McNamee5, Rosalind Rae6 and Zoe J Morrison7, 1Epidemiology Group, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom, 2Aberdeen Centre for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Health, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom, 3Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom, 4School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, United Kingdom, 5Health Economics Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom, 6Business School, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom, 7Human Resources and Organisational Behaviour, University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom

Meeting: 2018 ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting

Keywords: Community programs, evidence-based practice, physical activity, qualitative and well-being

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Session Information

Date: Tuesday, October 23, 2018

Title: 5T099 ARHP Abstract: Clinical Aspects & Outcomes Research–ARHP II (2844–2849)

Session Type: ARHP Concurrent Abstract Session

Session Time: 2:30PM-4:00PM

Background/Purpose: The Arthritis Foundation’s Walk With Ease (WWE) is an evidence-based 6 week community-based walking program for adults with arthritis delivered in instructor-led or self-directed format. It has been shown to improve physical function, pain, stiffness and fatigue. WWE is also a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-recommended physical activity (PA) program. In recent years, WWE has been scaled-up and expanded to communities across the United States (US), yet is little known outside North America. This study aimed to examine the relevance, acceptability and feasibility of WWE in a United Kingdom (UK) context, where walking for pleasure and transport is culturally embedded.

Methods: This 4 phase study was carried out in collaboration with community and patient partners: 1) Cultural adaptation; 2) WWE program; 3) Qualitative enquiry; 4) Future planning. Recruitment was primarily via invitation letter to persons registered in selected Aberdeen primary care practices. Eligible (≥18 years, doctor diagnosed arthritis (confirmed or self-report), and self-reported joint symptoms in last 30 days, BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, and <150 min/week of moderate/vigorous PA) and consented participants were randomised into 2 groups: WWE program or usual care. Descriptive statistics explored physical performance measures (PPM), symptoms and beliefs using physical performance assessment and survey data collected at baseline and post-6 week program. Participants’ experiences of WWE were explored via video ethnography and narrative interviews, and analysed thematically.

Results: Of 149 participants, the majority were women (70%) aged 60 years (76%). OA was most prevalent (66%), followed by back pain (54%) and RA (13%); most also had at least 1 non-arthritis condition (79%). Among participants, 97 received the WWE program: 52 chose instructor-led; 45 chose self-directed. Follow-up was 80.4% at 6-weeks; 82.5% at 18-weeks. Average walk attendance across 5 walking groups was 63% (11.5/18 walks). Nearly all (99%) would recommend WWE to family or friends and 81% reported they were satisfied with the program. At 6 weeks, about half reported being at least moderately better in physical health (47%) and emotional well-being (53%). Within both WWE formats, statistically significant differences representing improvement were observed at 6 weeks from baseline for PPM, symptoms and beliefs (table). Qualitatively, participants described liking and using the WWE guidebook but wanted a foldable exercise leaflet and expanded online resources. Positive experiences were reported, with emergent themes of improved motivation, mental health and social well-being.

Conclusion: Findings indicate that WWE is a relevant and acceptable walking program in a UK context. Wider implementation of this evidence-based program may benefit the physical health and well-being of people with arthritis.


Disclosure: K. R. Martin, None; T. O. Smith, None; S. Gaihre, None; G. J. Macfarlane, None; A. Neilson, None; P. McNamee, None; R. Rae, None; Z. J. Morrison, None.

To cite this abstract in AMA style:

Martin KR, Smith TO, Gaihre S, Macfarlane GJ, Neilson A, McNamee P, Rae R, Morrison ZJ. A Mixed-Methods Feasibility Study Exploring the Cultural Adaptation of Walk with Ease to the United Kingdom [abstract]. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2018; 70 (suppl 9). https://acrabstracts.org/abstract/a-mixed-methods-feasibility-study-exploring-the-cultural-adaptation-of-walk-with-ease-to-the-united-kingdom/. Accessed .
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