“It's like a nail being driven in the ankle”: A qualitative study of individuals' lived experiences to inform a core domain set for ankle osteoarthritis

Abstract
Objectives
Explore individuals' lived experience with ankle osteoarthritis and to identify health-related domains for ankle osteoarthritis based on the perspectives of people living with the condition, as an initial step to address the International Foot and Ankle Osteoarthritis Consortium's recommendation to develop a core domain set for ankle osteoarthritis.

Methods
A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted. Interviews were undertaken with individuals with symptomatic ankle osteoarthritis who were aged =35 years. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed.

Results
Twenty-three individuals (16 females; mean (range) age 62 (42–80) years) were interviewed. Five themes were identified: pain, often severe, is a central feature of living with ankle osteoarthritis; stiffness and swelling are key symptoms; ankle osteoarthritis induced mobility impairments compromise enjoyment in life; ankle osteoarthritis instability and balance impairments lead to concerns about falling; there are financial implications of living with ankle osteoarthritis. We propose 17 domains based on individuals’ experiences.

Conclusion
Study findings indicate that individuals with ankle osteoarthritis live with chronic ankle pain, stiffness and swelling which affect their ability to participate in physical, and social activities, maintain an active lifestyle, and work in physical occupations. From the data, we propose 17 domains that are important to people with ankle osteoarthritis. These domains require further evaluation to ascertain their inclusion in a core domain set for ankle osteoarthritis.

Aim

Explore individuals' lived experience with ankle osteoarthritis and to identify health-related domains for ankle osteoarthritis based on the perspectives of people living with the condition, as an initial step to address the International Foot and Ankle Osteoarthritis Consortium's recommendation to develop a core domain set for ankle osteoarthritis.

Contributors

Sultan Ayyadah Alanazi, Bill Vicenzino, Liam R. Maclachlan, Michelle D. Smith

Publication

Journal: Musculoskeletal Science and Practice
Volume: 66
Issue:
Pages: -
Year: 2023
DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2023.102813

Further Study Information

Current Stage: Completed
Date:
Funding source(s):


Health Area

Disease Category: Rheumatology

Disease Name: Osteoarthritis

Target Population

Age Range: 18 - 120

Sex: Either

Nature of Intervention: Any

Stakeholders Involved

- Consumers (patients)

Study Type

- Patient perspectives

Method(s)

- Interview

A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted. Interviews were undertaken with individuals with symptomatic ankle osteoarthritis who were aged =35 years. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed