Feasibility of an Early Care Intervention for Acute Knee Injuries: A Mixed-Methods Study

OBJECTIVE: We developed and evaluated the feasibility of a physiotherapist-led blended subacute-phase intervention. METHODS: In this mixed-methods feasibility study, participants were recruited from two emergency departments in Region Zealand, Denmark, within one week of acute knee trauma. They attended a weekly goal-oriented subacute-phase intervention combining progressive exercise, education, self-directed Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-based psychological support, and peer narratives delivered through a digital platform. Primary feasibility targets at 6 weeks were acceptability ≥75%, recruitment ≥5/month, retention ≥75%, and outcome completion ≥80%. Post-intervention interviews explored participant experiences and perceived value, expanding on the acceptability domain in an explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach. RESULTS: Twenty participants were enrolled (11 women, 9 men; median age 20 years), yielding recruitment of 2 participants/month. Sixty-seven per cent of participants attributed important improvement due to study participation. Fourteen participants (70%) completed the subacute-phase intervention, and 60% completed 6-week outcomes. Eight interviews revealed high perceived value through early support, meaningful rehabilitation, and promotion of future knee health. CONCLUSION: Although predefined quantitative feasibility criteria were not met, the intervention showed clinical promise and high participant value. Recruitment and retention barriers highlight the need for alternative early-care delivery pathways.