Why is this study being conducted?
For individuals with knee osteoarthritis and a larger body size, weight loss is often recommended before undergoing knee replacement surgery. However, research suggests that instead of trying to lose weight, it may be more beneficial to maintain and improve muscle mass, strength, and physical function.
This type of approach has the potential to:
- Reduce arthritis pain
- Improve quality of life and mobility
- Improve health before surgery and promote a faster recovery
- Postpone or prevent the need for knee replacement surgery
We first need to test whether this type of treatment approach is feasible, acceptable, and effective. To do this, we are conducting a randomized trial.
You are invited to participate.
THE INTERVENTION
The personalized intervention approach we are testing includes the following 3 components:
RESISTANCE EXERCISE
Progressive resistance exercise sessions led by a clinical exercise physiologist (CEP) to improve strength, physical function, and muscle mass
NUTRITION SUPPORT
Nutrition recommendations provided by a registered dietitian (RD) to support muscle preservationSELF-MANAGEMENT SUPPORT
A self-management support group led by an occupational therapist (OT) to help manage knee arthritis symptoms
WHAT IS INVOLVED IF I PARTICIPATE?
You will be assigned at RANDOM (like flipping a coin) to one of two groups: intervention or usual care.
Both groups are equally important as they will allow us to test the effect of the intervention in an unbiased way. You will be told which group you have been assigned to after the initial study assessment visit.
All individuals in both groups will complete a series of assessments (e.g., physical function tests, body composition measurements, questionnaires, etc.). These assessments will be completed at baseline and repeated at 3-months (interim) and 10-months (study end).
Click the button below to learn more about the types of assessments being performed and the responsibilities required from each group.
WHERE WILL THE STUDY TAKE PLACE?
Study activities will take place in-person and remotely.
UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA
A minimum of three separate in-person assessment visits are required at the University of Alberta campus. Free parking will be provided for all visits. The remaining study components can be completed remotely.
REMOTELY
Remote online delivery can be accessed at your home through an internet connection and your own computer, smartphone, or tablet. The following activities will be held via zoom videoconferencing: the initial RD consultation, all biweekly education sessions (nutrition and self-management), and some exercise sessions.
WHO IS LEADING THE STUDY?
This study is led by a research team from the University of Alberta
Dr. Kristine Godziuk
Dr. Carla Prado
Dr. Mary Forhan
Patient-Advisory Team