KNOWLEDGE OF THE USE OF KNEE BRACES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS AMONG PATIENTS AGED 36 YEARS AND ABOVE IN MULAGO NATIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background

Patient education is an important first-line OA treatment necessary for enhancing the understanding and changing the attitude about OA and its optimal management. This study aims to assess the knowledge of knee braces use in managing knee osteoarthritis among patients aged 36 years and above in Mulago National Referral Hospital.

 Methodology

The study was descriptive, and cross-sectional employing a quantitative data collection approach from 45 respondents. It included all male and female patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis in the orthopedic workshop.

 Results

The majority 35(78%) were not familiar with knee braces as a treatment option for knee OA and only 10 (22) knew about knee braces as a treatment option for knee OA. 36(80%) could confirm that knee braces were safer than other treatment options for knee arthritis and 9 (20%) could not. 42(93.3%) did not get to discuss the outcomes of knee braces with their healthcare provider and 3(6.7%) always discussed with their healthcare provider. 39(86.7%) of the respondents would like to learn more about knee braces in managing knee OA while 6(13.3%) would not. By level of education, 15(33.3%) held certificates, 10(22.2%) had diplomas, 10(22.2%) possessed degrees, and 3(6.7%) had master's degrees and 7(15.6%) had no certification. 3(6.6%). 

 Conclusion

There is a wide knowledge gap among Osteoarthritis patients concerning using knee braces as a treatment option for knee OA and its possible outcomes. 

 Recommendation

The public should be sensitized by health care providers and other health promotion agencies on the different treatment options for orthopedic conditions like knee OA to improve the uptake of the different available orthopedic services.