Joint Protection Education: What are We Doing?

Abstract

Joint protection (JP) education is a standard part of rheumatology occupational therapy services. This survey was conducted to identify the duration, teaching methods and content of JP education. Over half of therapists responding (55%, n=86) provided education for less than one hour during one treatment session. Eighty-six per cent supported education with written information; 66% demonstrated JP methods to patients, commonly methods for opening Jars, chair transfers and tap turning; and 50% also asked patients to practise these under supervision. The SPIRE arthritis education programme seemed a common influence on the JP education provided. Previous research suggests that educational-behavioural approach based patient education programmes (of 8–12 hours' duration) facilitate health behavioural change. It would appear that much of the current JP education provided in the United Kingdom may not be achieving this goal.