The aim of the study was to analyse patients’ experiences, usability and acceptability of a 12-week self-directed m-health exercise intervention for patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

This qualitative study was included in a randomised controlled trial. After completion of a 12-week m-health exercise intervention, 14 structured telephone interviews were conducted in patients with knee OA. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and analysed using a combined deductive and inductive content analysis approach.

The study was conducted at a university hospital in southern Germany.

Four themes were identified: (1) facilitators and (2) barriers for (correct) digital exercise participation, (3) ease of use and (4) outcomes. Participants valued ease of use, comprehensibility, flexibility and certain app features (eg, push notifications as reminders, instruction videos, real-time biofeedback) that facilitated guidance, control and motivation to complete exercises. However, some participants requested some kind of human support.

The participants demonstrated predominantly positive experiences and acceptability with the self-directed m-health exercise intervention. As some participants lacked human support, we suggest that the optimal treatment option should be selected according to the preferences and needs of the individual patient.

DRKS00023269.