Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To describe and explore current exercise and physical activity behaviour in older adults with knee pain in the UK. METHODS: A survey was mailed to 2234 adults ≥50 years of age registered with one general practice within the UK to determine the presence and severity of knee pain and levels of physical activity. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 questionnaire responders with knee pain. RESULTS: The questionnaire response rate was 59% (n = 1276) and 611 respondents reported knee pain. Only ∼40% of individuals with knee pain were sufficiently active to meet physical activity recommendations. Interviews revealed individual differences in the type and setting of physical activity completed and some self-monitored their symptoms in response to physical activity in order to guide future behaviour. CONCLUSION: Innovative interventions that can be adapted to suit individual needs and preferences are required to help older adults with knee pain become more physically active.