Clinically Validated Stanford-Developed Digital Osteoarthritis Intervention Now Available to Patients and Clinicians Nationwide
Research-backed mindset and movement program translates clinical findings into scalable public resource for the 27+ million Americans living with osteoarthritis.
Rethink Health today announced the public launch of Rethink Osteoarthritis (Rethink OA), a digital intervention originally developed at Stanford University and validated in a clinical trial demonstrating meaningful improvements in patient outcomes.
The program, co-designed alongside individuals living with osteoarthritis, translates research in mindset science, biomechanics, and behavior change into practical education and tools for both patients and clinicians.
The Problem
Osteoarthritis affects more than 27 million Americans and is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Yet many patients receive limited education beyond medication or surgical options. Clinicians often lack the time to provide in-depth counseling about pain science, movement adaptation, and mindset — despite growing evidence that these factors significantly influence outcomes.
“Osteoarthritis affects millions of people, yet many are left with limited guidance beyond medication or surgery,” said Dr. Melissa Boswell, founder of Rethink Health. “It was rigorously evaluated and demonstrated measurable improvements in physical activity, movement confidence, and overall well-being. We built it alongside people living with osteoarthritis to ensure it addressed real challenges. It’s a real, evidence-based tool for a condition that affects millions.”
The Evidence
The intervention was evaluated in a randomized clinical trial involving more than 400 individuals with osteoarthritis and was subsequently published in npj Digital Medicine, a Nature Portfolio journal.
Compared to those in the control groups, participants who received the mindset-based intervention demonstrated:
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Increased physical activity levels
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Reduced fear of movement
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Greater confidence in their ability to manage pain
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Improvements in both physical and mental health outcomes
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A reduced perceived need for surgery over time
Reductions in pain were also observed within the mindset group.
Unlike traditional educational materials, the program integrates mindset research, behavior change science, movement guidance grounded in biomechanics, and real-world patient insights.Â
"Before, I thought that surgery was my only option," said Rethink OA participant Elizabeth B. "Now, instead of feeling fearful and limited, I am educated and empower to improve my situation."
The Program
The digital format allows clinicians to offer evidence-based education and supportive resources without adding significant time burden to already constrained appointments.
The program is now available to individuals nationwide and to healthcare providers seeking validated educational tools for their patients.
