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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Barbara L. Braun, PhD¹, David L. Parker, MD, MPH², Min Xi, PhD¹, Christine N. Melko, MPH³, Lisa M. Harvey, MPH³, and Joan M. Bissen, RD⁴. (1) Health Research Center, Park Nicollet Institute, 3800 Park Nicollet Blvd, St. Louis Park, MN 55416, 952 993 1885, Braunb@parknicollet.com, (2) HealthSource and Occupational Medicine, Park Nicollet Institute and Park Nicollet Health Services, 3800 Park Nicollet Blvd, St Louis Park, MN 55416, (3) Health Education Center, Park Nicollet Institute, 3800 Park Nicollet Blvd, St Louis Park, MN 55416, (4) Professional Education, Park Nicollet Institute, 3800 Park Nicollet Blvd, St Louis Park, MN 55416

Background: The American's with Disabilities Act affords protection against discrimination for disabilities. Arthritis is a frequently overlooked cause of disability but often impedes full societal participation. This study implemented guidelines for arthritis management beyond medical management to community living. Methods: From October 2004 to January 2005, 201 Park Nicollet Health System patients with rheumatoid arthritis and 264 with osteoarthritis reporting daily pain and arthritis problems were randomized into a 12-month coach-supported intervention (four motivational interviewing coaching sessions with telephone support) or 12-month self-directed intervention (three brief appointments) focusing on weight management and physical activity. Results: At six months, retention was 79%; more coach-supported participants lost two or more pounds (48%) than self-directed participants (35%). Among those losing at least two pounds, average weight loss was seven pounds. 22% of coach-supported participants gained at least two pounds compared to 31% self-directed participants. While 55% of all participants increased days/week of exercise, more coach-supported participants reached four days/week (66%) than self-directed participants (56%). Both groups engaged in a variety of moderate and high intensity activities such as walking (58%), gardening (69%), snow shoveling (42%), swimming (19%) and vigorous dancing (16%0. Conclusion: Despite significant disability due to arthritis, both groups were successful at six months with weight management and increasing physical activity; the coach-supported group was more successful. Participants engage in a surprisingly broad array of activities. At six months, both interventions can be recommended for implementation. 12-month results will be reported and will provide additional information for limiting disability from arthritis.

Learning Objectives:

• • Recognize the broad scope, impact, and manifestations of disabling arthritis
• • Identify key strategies for integrating people with disabling arthritis into traditional physical activity and weight management programs
• • Discuss measures of success in weight management and physical activity promotion among people with arthitis

Keywords: Arthritis, Disability

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered