Themes from the qualitative synthesis (number of studies)

Campbell 2001

Fisken 2016

Hendry 2006

Hinman 2016

Hurley 2010

Larmer 2014b; Larmer 2014a

Moody 2012

Morden 2011

Petursdottir 2010

Stone 2015

Thorstensson 2006

Veenhof 2006

Symptoms

Pain and physical function (6)

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Capacity to exercise (6)

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Impact of exercise on the effects of OA (10)

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Health beliefs and views on the management of OA

Aetiology and prognosis of OA (4)

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Non‐exercise management strategies (3)

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Advice and information from health professionals (6)

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Health beliefs and managing OA and exercise (6)

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Everyday activities (physical activity) versus structured exercise (4)

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Psychological factors

Impact of OA on people's sense of "self" (4)

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Individual disposition (2)

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Psychological benefits of exercise (8)

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Influence of programme supervisors (9)

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Social and environmental factors

Prioritising exercise (7)

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The support of family and friends (4)

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Social identity (2)

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Exercise facilities (6)

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OA: osteoarthritis.