Effectiveness of a Scaled-Up Arthritis Self-Management Program in Oregon: Walk With Ease

Abstract

<p class="first" id="d3613036e146"> <i>Objectives.</i> To evaluate the effectiveness of Walk With Ease (WWE), an evidence-based arthritis self-management program that was scaled up in Oregon in 2012 to 2014. </p><p id="d3613036e151"> <i>Methods.</i> Guided by the RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance) framework, we collected participant surveys and attendance records and conducted observations. Preprogram and postprogram, participants self-reported pain and fatigue (scale: 0–10 points; high scores indicate more pain and fatigue) and estimated episodes of physical activity per week in the last month. </p><p id="d3613036e156"> <i>Results.</i> Recruitment successfully reached the targeted population—sedentary adults with arthritis (n = 598). Participants reported significant reduction in pain (−0.47 points; <i>P</i> = .006) and fatigue (−0.58 points; <i>P</i> = .021) and increased physical activity (0.86 days/week; <i>P</i> &lt; .001). WWE was adopted by workplaces and medical, community, faith, and retirement centers. Most WWE programs were delivered with high fidelity; average attendance was 47%. </p><p id="d3613036e170"> <i>Conclusions.</i> WWE is suitable for implementation by diverse organizations. Effect sizes for pain and fatigue were less than those in the original WWE studies, but this is to be expected for a large-scale implementation. </p><p id="d3613036e175"> <i>Public Health Implications.</i> WWE can be effectively translated to diverse, real-world contexts to help sedentary adults increase physical activity and reduce pain and fatigue. </p>