How Do Nonsurgical Interventions Improve Pain and Physical Function in People With Osteoarthritis? A Scoping Review of Mediation Analysis Studies.

In knee OA, some evidence suggests that the benefits of 1) diet and exercise are mediated through changes in body weight, systemic inflammation, and self-efficacy; 2) exercise is mediated through changes in knee muscle strength and self-efficacy; and 3) high-expectation communication style is mediated through changes in self-efficacy.