BMJ Open · 6 authors, 2 centres
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A qualitative study of 20 people with knee osteoarthritis explored experiences maintaining weight loss 6 months after a multicomponent weight loss programme, finding that participants were overall successful and confident in self-regulating weight, though loss of accountability and old habits posed challenges.
This qualitative study used semistructured interviews with 20 adults with knee osteoarthritis to explore their experiences maintaining weight loss 6 months after completing a multicomponent weight loss programme. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three themes were developed: successfully maintained weight loss; empowering self-management of weight, including understanding the importance of exercise, increased knowledge about food and nutrition, continued use of programme resources, knee pain as a motivator, and confidence in self-regulation; and challenges keeping on track, including loss of accountability, old habits, and stressful life events. Limitations include the sample comprising only successful weight loss maintainers who volunteered, potential selection bias, and the Australian private-health-insurance context limiting transferability. Findings suggest that combining dietitian and physiotherapist consultations, a VLCD, and educational resources supports medium-term weight loss maintenance confidence.
