Patient Information

CHAIN (Cycling against hip pain)

What is CHAIN?

The CHAIN (Cycling against hip pain) programme is an exercise and education treatment for people with hip osteoarthritis and other forms of hip pain. The CHAIN programme was originally designed by Professor Robert Middleton and Professor Thomas Wainwright in Bournemouth. The programme first launched in 2013 and has been running since.

CHAIN is an 8 week cycling and education programme for patients with hip osteoarthritis. Each session is 1 hour in length and consists of cycling and education on self management. The programme aims to promote self management of osteoarthritis through lifestyle change.

Education Sessions

Education sessions will consist of a short 5 minute video followed by a general discussion of some of the points highlighted during the video. The education sessions will cover different themes related to osteoarthritis including benefits of exercise, types of pain relief, diet and nutrition.

Cycling Sessions

The cycling sessions will are designed with varying speeds and intensity, building week on week to ensure a steady progress for each person. For example, week 1 will start with bike set up and gentle cycling through to week 8 where you will participate in a 35 to 40 minute cycle equivalent to a standard spin class, at an intensity that you are able to comfortably sustain.

You will be provided with a home exercise programme as part of the CHAIN programme.

What are the benefits?

Patients who have completed the programme report improved flexilbity, less pain, less dependence on pain relief, improved sleep, feeling fitter and stronger and better able to complete every day tasks. Patients also grew in confidence and wellbeing, made lifestyle changes and learned how to make exercise an enjoyable habit.

Where is CHAIN being run?

The CHAIN programme is being run in the spin studio at the Cocks Moors Woods Leisure Centre. There is free parking at the Leisure Centre.

Address:

Cocks Moors Woods Leisure Centre
Alcester Road
Kings Heath
Birmingham
B14 6ER

Who is running the programme?

The programme is being run by the Physiotherapy Department at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital. The programme will be delivered by a physiotherapist and spin instructor.

How do I get referred to the CHAIN Programme?

Your consultant or physiotherapist can complete a referral form for the CHAIN programme. Alternatively you can complete a physiotherapy self-referral form. All CHAIN referrals will be screened by a member of the physiotherapy team to see if you are suitable for the programme.