Rethink Health
Rethink OA is a science-based education and coaching organization dedicated to helping individuals living with osteoarthritis improve movement, confidence, and quality of life—without relying solely on medications or surgery.
Built on research developed at Stanford University, Rethink OA offers a structured digital Mindset Program that helps participants better understand osteoarthritis, reduce fear around movement, and build sustainable, healthy activity habits. The program is clinically shown to support increased physical activity, improved physical and mental well-being, and greater confidence in managing osteoarthritis.
In addition to its online program, Rethink OA provides personalized one-on-one coaching, small-group cohorts, and access to a private community that offers encouragement, accountability, and shared learning. Through education, mindset science, and compassionate support, Rethink OA empowers individuals to rethink pain, move with confidence, and stay active in the lives they enjoy.
Our Mission
Rethink OA empowers people living with osteoarthritis through evidence-based, mindset-driven tools that help them regain control of their lives—transforming how they think, move, and live with OA.
Our Story
Rethink OA was born at Stanford University, where a multidisciplinary team of researchers, clinicians, and psychologists came together with a shared goal: to fundamentally rethink how people with osteoarthritis are supported.
Through clinical research, the team discovered something transformative—when individuals learn to reinterpret pain, their confidence grows, movement improves, and life begins to open back up again.
The Science Behind the Solution
This insight led to the creation of a digital mindset program—later published in Nature Digital Medicine—that demonstrated measurable outcomes, including:
- Increased physical activity
- Improved physical and mental well-being
- Reduced fear of movement
- Greater engagement in daily life
The approach was simple, accessible, and deeply human—and it worked.
From Research to Real Life
After witnessing participants regain mobility, return to activities they once believed were lost, and rediscover hope, Melissa Boswell, PhD, brought the program beyond research and into the world as Rethink Osteoarthritis.
Today, Rethink OA is a science-driven digital program shaped by real human experiences. Designed to meet individuals exactly where they are—physically, emotionally, and mentally—Rethink OA helps people move forward with confidence toward what matters most.
Additional Information
Melissa Boswell, PhD
Founder & CEO
Mindset Science
Developed and tested at Stanford, proven to improve confidence and activity.
Supportive Coaching
Personalized sessions to help you apply what you learn.
Community Connection
A space to share stories, stay motivated, and learn from others.
