A Pragmatic Approach to the Implementation of Osteoarthritis Guidelines Has Fewer Potential Barriers Than Recommended Implementation Frameworks

Translating evidence-based treatment recommendations and guidelines into feasible delivery in routine care is an essential objective to improve quality of care. Nevertheless, guidelines are underused, and many physical therapists and other professionals continue to offer low-value care modalities, providing the patients with treatment options of little to no benefit. In contrast to low-value interventions, evidence-based treatment guidelines for osteoarthritis (OA) recommend information, exercise, and weight control. The authors discuss the feasibility of a pragmatic approach to implementation of clinical guidelines that facilitates improved quality of care for management of OA. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2019;49(1):1-4. doi:10.2519/jospt.2019.0601.