Illness perceptions in patients diagnosed with osteoarthritis in light of their personal experiences: a mixed-methods study

Authors : Damla Bakkallar, Işıl Işık, Gül Ergün

Pages : 21-30

Doi:10.54270/atljm.2026.105

View : 57 | Download : 152

Publication Date : 2026-02-27

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study aimed to evaluate the illness perceptions of individuals diagnosed with osteoarthritis and scheduled for knee replacement surgery, through the lens of their personal experiences. A mixed-methods research design was employed. The quantitative phase included 50 patients, while the qualitative phase involved in-depth individual interviews with 10 patients. Data collection tools included a Personal Information Form, the Illness Perception Questionnaire, and a Semi-Structured Interview Form. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS 21.0, employing Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Qualitative data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s phenomenological method, yielding four main themes: Illness Perception, Impact of the Illness, Treatment, and Nature of the Illness. Pain (96%), joint stiffness (96%), fatigue (94%), and loss of strength (86%) were the most commonly reported symptoms. Qualitative findings revealed that participants frequently associated osteoarthritis with aging, experienced significant restrictions in their social lives, and perceived current treatment options as largely inadequate. Patients\\\' perceptions of osteoarthritis significantly influence their treatment adherence, quality of life, and decisions regarding surgical intervention. Accordingly, it is essential for nurses to develop illness perception–oriented assessment and intervention strategies as part of the multidisciplinary care team.
Keywords : osteoarthritis, illness perception, knee replacement, personal experience, mixed-methods

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