Society's Misconceptions About Intra-articular Injections: A Cross-Sectional Study From Saudi Arabia

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Rheumatology
• Patient Education

Background:

• Intra-articular injections are a common treatment for osteoarthritis (OA).
• Understanding patient knowledge and misconceptions is vital for effective OA management.
• Societal beliefs can significantly influence treatment adherence and decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and analyze misconceptions about intra-articular injections in Saudi Arabia.
• To explore the sources of information regarding these injections.
• To investigate factors influencing patient decisions in OA treatment.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 405 adult participants in Saudi Arabia.
• Self-administered questionnaires assessed knowledge, information sources, and beliefs about intra-articular injections.
• Statistical analysis explored correlations between education, communication, and knowledge.

Main Results:

• Nearly half (48.4%) of participants lacked knowledge of intra-articular injections.
• 16.1% held misconceptions, such as injections liquefying bone.
• Most patients (83.9%) sought injections to delay surgery; satisfaction with guidance was high (56.5%), but future concerns existed (46.8%).

Conclusions:

• Significant misconceptions about intra-articular injections necessitate improved patient education in Saudi Arabia.
• Enhanced healthcare provider-patient communication is essential for informed decision-making regarding OA treatment.
• Findings highlight the global need for patient-centered care and addressing knowledge gaps in joint injection therapies.