Exploring patients and physiotherapists visions on modelling treatments and optimizing self-management strategies for partellofemoral pain; a future workshop study

The aim of the study was to identify challenges confronting patients and physiotherapists in managing patellofemoral pain, by seeking their perspectives via generative activities involving critique, ideation and formulating shared visions for future treatments during two future workshops.

We recruited 8 patients (median age 36 yrs, 4 women) who were experiencing patellofemoral pain and 10 physiotherapists (54 yrs, 8 women) who treated patients with the condition. Several vignette cases and design cards were constructed and included as tools for facilitating dialogue, throughout all three phases (each ∼40 min duration) of the workshops (i.e., critique, fantasy, implementation). Participants’ discussions were audio recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed independently by four investigators until no additional themes emerged.

Four themes were identified; (i) challenges confronting patients, (ii) learning to manage patellofemoral pain (knowledge), (iii) stakeholder accountability and (iv) development/use of portable applications (apps). Some challenges and strategies were related to family and social networks, financial costs, and psychological factors. Knowledge related to the condition, mental and physical impact of pain, exercises and physical activity. The physiotherapist's role in moderating accurate information was raised, as was that of the GP and personal trainer. Visions of future treatments centered about the inclusion of flexible modes of communication and cultivating mutual accountability. Social determinants and the invisible work of patients in managing their condition was apparent.

Enacting patient centered care was sought/recommended – requiring consideration of social contexts and flexible delivery. The physiotherapist was seen as a source of accurate information and a point of accountability.