Introduction Regular physical activity (PA) serves as a potent intervention for mitigating pain and optimizing functional capacity and life quality. This study aims to evaluate Moroccan rheumatologists’ knowledge, attitudes, and self-reported practices regarding PA in the management of knee OA. Methodology A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted among rheumatologist members of the Moroccan Society of Rheumatology. Participants completed a structured questionnaire designed to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding PA in patients with knee OA. Results A total of 180 rheumatologists participated, representing 40% of the society’s membership. Their mean medical practice duration was 12.7 ± 10.7 years, and only 37 (20.5%) had received specific training on PA. The majority of rheumatologists assessed PA levels (164, 91.1%), and 169 (93.9%) reported recommending PA most of the time. However, participants demonstrated significant knowledge gaps. Only 42 (23.3%) knew the World Health Organization (WHO) cut-off point for physical inactivity, and 114 (63.3%) were aware of the recommended frequency of muscle resistance exercises according to the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) 2018 guidelines. Additionally, 144 (80%) confused the definitions of physical exercise (PE) and PA, and only 20 (11.1%) correctly defined sedentariness. In this study, most rheumatologists were aware of high-level recommendations for PE (159, 88.3%) and for individualized exercise programs (156, 86.7%). Moreover, 150 (83.6%) of physicians recognized the widespread recommendation of aquatic exercises by knee OA scientific societies. While the majority recognized other interventions, only 46 (25.6%) recognized the use of a cane as a high-level recommendation for knee OA management. Finally, 146 (81%) of participants expressed a need for further training on PA in knee OA. Conclusions Rheumatologists express a strong interest in promoting PA in knee OA, but significant knowledge gaps were identified. These findings suggest the need to incorporate PA in rheumatologist training programs.
Majjad et al. (Mon,) studied this question.