People with knee pain who live near Kenmore and Bellbowrie are needed for University research. All eligible volunteers will receive a course of physiotherapy treatment at no cost!
If you are 45 or older, have had knee pain for more than 3 months, and are not having exercise treatment for your knee, you may take part in a new study. You can apply and learn more at www.peakstudy.com.au.
What is the research about?
The Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine at the University of Melbourne is conducting a new study across Australia comparing the effects of different ways of delivering physiotherapy for people with knee osteoarthritis.
You do not need to have a formal diagnosis of osteoarthritis to volunteer in this study. Physiotherapy management typically involves the delivery of a structured strengthening exercise program and advice about how to manage and increase physical activity levels.
Physiotherapy may be delivered in any number of ways including:
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What do participants get?
All eligible participants will receive (at no cost to them):
- 5 consultations with a physiotherapist over a 3-month period
- An individualized strengthening exercise program & physical activity plan
- A wearable activity monitor (to keep)
- Educational information booklets and exercise resources
Why do they want to do this research?
Osteoarthritis of the knee is a common condition in adults. It often causes pain and reduces quality of life. It is known that many Australians with knee osteoarthritis are unfortunately not receiving accurate information and guidance about physical activity and exercise and are having trouble managing their knee condition on their own.
Consulting a health professional, such as a physiotherapist, can be helpful in discussing more specific information about osteoarthritis and for obtaining personalised guidance and support around a knee exercise strengthening program and physical activity plan.
This study will help the researchers understand how to best deliver physiotherapy care to people with knee osteoarthritis. Progress of research participants will be evaluated by using questionnaires to monitor their knee pain and their ability to carry out functional activities. Findings from this study will inform physiotherapists and health service providers about the most effective methods of delivering physiotherapy services to people with knee osteoarthritis.
Meet Tom
Thomas Harris is the physiotherapist providing services as part of the new Physiotherapy, Exercise, and physical Activity for Knee osteoarthritis (PEAK) study for participants living around the Kenmore and Bellbowrie suburbs. Tom has been trained as part of the study in delivering quality care based on current research evidence for knee osteoarthritis.
Tom studied Exercise Science at Griffith University and has completed a Masters of Physiotherapy. He currently works locally with the Kenmore Bears AFC. He is also qualified as a Level One Accredited Strength and Conditioning Coach.
Where can I get further information?
You can apply now at www.peakstudy.com.au. If you would like more information about the study, please do not hesitate to contact the trial coordinator, Penny Campbell, via phone on 03 9035 5702 or via email at penelopec@unimelb.edu.au.
