Improving care for knee pain from degenerative meniscal tears and early osteoarthritis
Knowledge Translation and Exercise for Degenerative Meniscal Tears and Early Osteoarthritis: the KNEE-DEeP Feasibility Study
This study is testing a new way to help people with knee pain from meniscal tears and early osteoarthritis by training doctors and physiotherapists to provide better care and faster access to treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 36 (estimated) |
| Ages | 35 Years to 69 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Limerick Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Tralee, Kerry) |
| Trial ID | NCT06576557 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
The KNEE-DEeP intervention aims to enhance the management of knee pain caused by degenerative meniscal tears and early osteoarthritis through a multi-component strategy. This approach includes training for general practitioners (GPs) and physiotherapists to improve clinical consultations and ensure timely access to physiotherapy. The intervention is designed based on evidence and theoretical frameworks to address barriers to effective care. The feasibility study will assess the acceptability and delivery of this intervention among patients and healthcare professionals.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 35 to 69 who have visited their GP for non-traumatic knee pain attributed to degenerative meniscal tears or early osteoarthritis.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis, recent trauma, or other significant knee injuries may not benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could lead to improved management and recovery for patients suffering from knee pain due to degenerative conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with similar interventions focused on exercise and education for knee pain management, indicating a promising approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria for Participants with Knee Pain: * Attended their GP with an episode of non-traumatic knee pain * Have knee pain attributed to a DMT or early degenerative changes based on the GP's clinical assessment (this standardised assessment is a component of the GP training) * Aged between 35 and 69 years inclusive Exclusion Criteria: * Recent trauma likely to be associated with considerable tissue damage * Fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology clinical classification criteria for knee OA (these criteria reflect later signs of OA or established disease) * Moderate or advanced knee OA on x-ray (or Kellgren-Lawrence x-ray score ≥ Grade 3) * Having an acutely swollen or locked knee, or suspected ligament injury on physical exam * Inflammatory arthritis * Surgery or significant trauma of the index knee within the previous 2 years * Pregnancy * Unable to communicate in English * Preference for accessing physiotherapy treatment privately prior to the 'best practice' session. Inclusion Criteria for Participating GPs (n=15) and Physiotherapists (n=5): * Eligible GPs will be working in practices within traveling distance (\< 50 km) of University Hospital Kerry and willing to attend a two-hour training workshop * Eligible physiotherapists will be involved in the delivery of outpatient musculoskeletal physiotherapy services at University Hospital Kerry and available to participate in training to deliver the 'best practice' physiotherapy intervention
Where this trial is running
Tralee, Kerry
- University Hospital Kerry — Tralee, Kerry, Ireland (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Helen O'Leary, BSc Physio — University of Limerick
- Study coordinator: Liam Ryan, BSc Physio
- Email: liamg.ryan@hse.ie
- Phone: 00 353 66 7184280
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.