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A community-based exercise programme for older persons with knee pain using telemedicine
Y K Wong1, Elsie Hui, Jean Woo
1Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin Hospital, 33-A Kung Kok Street, Shatin NT, Hong Kong, China.
Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare
|September 20, 2005
Summary
This study shows that a 12-week exercise program delivered via videoconferencing significantly improved knee pain, muscle strength, and balance in elderly individuals. The remote exercise intervention was well-accepted by participants, proving its feasibility for this population.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Telehealth
Background:
- Knee pain is a prevalent issue among the elderly, impacting mobility and quality of life.
- Traditional exercise programs may present accessibility challenges for older adults.
- Telehealth offers a potential solution for delivering health interventions remotely.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and efficacy of a videoconferencing-based exercise program for elderly individuals with knee pain.
- To evaluate the impact of the program on pain, muscle strength, and balance.
- To determine the acceptance and usability of videoconferencing for this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A 12-week exercise program (strengthening and balance) was delivered via videoconferencing to 22 community-dwelling elderly subjects (≥60 years) with knee pain.
- Outcome measures included the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), quadriceps strength, and Berg's Balance Scale (BBS).
- Participant acceptance of videoconferencing was also assessed.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in all WOMAC score domains (P <0.003) among the 20 completers.
- Quadriceps muscle strength increased by 44% (P <0.001) and BBS scores by 13% (P <0.001).
- Over 80% of participants found the videoconferencing system user-friendly and convenient.
Conclusions:
- Videoconferencing is a feasible and effective method for delivering exercise programs to elderly individuals with knee pain.
- Remote exercise interventions can lead to significant improvements in pain, strength, and balance.
- Telehealth is a viable and well-accepted modality for geriatric rehabilitation.