Evidence for your Practice: Time-Based Activity Pacing Instruction for Participants with Osteoarthritis

Article for Review:

Murphy S.L., Kratz, A.L., Kidwell, K., et al. (2016). Brief time-based activity pacing instruction as a singular behavioral intervention was not effective in participants with symptomatic osteoarthritis. Pain, 157(7): 1563-1573.

This randomized clinical trial compared the effectiveness of an occupational therapist-delivered time-based activity pacing program (general and tailored) with usual care for symptomatic osteoarthritis. Time-based activity pacing is the regulation of activity and rest periods based on time (rather than tasks or symptoms). The program was delivered in three sessions and included a learning module for each session. The tailored activity pacing program also included an individualized summary report of activity and symptom data. Assessment at 6 months post baseline showed significant reductions in the Osteoarthritis Index pain scores for the usual pain group only.

Conclusion:

Activity pacing as a singular behavioural strategy was not found to be sufficient for improving pain, fatigue, or physical function for participants with symptomatic knee or hip osteoarthritis. 

Abstract available here.