New Digital Program Helps People With Osteoarthritis Manage Pain and Live More Active Lives
A new Stanford-developed and clinically validated program helps people move with greater confidence and reduce their fear of pain.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Charlotte, NC — March 6, 2026
Nearly 1 in 2 adults will develop symptomatic knee osteoarthritis during their lifetime, yet many people living with arthritis struggle to find clear guidance on how to stay active and manage pain.
Today, Rethink Health announced the nationwide launch of Rethink Osteoarthritis (Rethink OA), a digital program designed to help people with osteoarthritis better understand their pain, build confidence in movement, and live more active lives.
Originally developed at Stanford University, the program was evaluated and proven in a randomized clinical trial involving more than 400 individuals with osteoarthritis, demonstrating significant improvements in several important outcomes.
Participants who completed the program experienced:
- Increased physical activity
- Reduced fear of movement
- Greater confidence in managing pain
- Improvements in both physical and mental health
- Reduced perceived need for surgery over time
“Osteoarthritis can make people feel like their body is working against them,” said Dr. Melissa Boswell, Founder of Rethink Health. “Now research shows that how we understand pain, movement, and our bodies shapes how we feel and how we’re able to live our lives more actively. Rethink OA helps people build confidence in their bodies and stay active despite osteoarthritis.”
The program teaches practical research-backed strategies to provide more helpful mindsets about osteoarthritis and physical activity, recognizing that movement can play an important role in managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life. Research shows that the way people think about exercise and their health can influence behavior, well-being, and physical outcomes. 
Rethink OA program participants learn:
- How pain works
- Why movement is one of the most effective treatments for osteoarthritis
- How to build confidence in their bodies again
- Practical ways to stay active and capable in everyday life
“Before the program, I thought surgery was my only option,” said Elizabeth B., a participant in the program. “Now, instead of feeling fearful and limited, I feel empowered and am capable of improving my situation.”
Rethink OA is now available nationwide for both individuals and healthcare organizations seeking evidence-based patient education tools.
To learn more or sign up, visit:
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About Rethink Health
Rethink Health is a digital health company focused on helping people rethink pain, movement, and chronic conditions through science-based education and behavior change. Its flagship program, Rethink Osteoarthritis, translates research developed at Stanford University into practical tools that help individuals stay active, build confidence in their bodies, and improve their quality of life. The company works with individuals, clinicians, and health organizations to expand access to evidence-based support for osteoarthritis.
