Web-based physiotherapy for people with axial spondyloarthritis (WEBPASS) - a study protocol

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Digital Health
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Axial spondyloarthritis (axial SpA) patients face barriers to regular exercise.
• Personalized, internet-delivered exercise programs may help patients meet recommended exercise targets.
• This study investigates a 12-month web-based physiotherapy program for axial SpA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the adherence to a personalized web-based physiotherapy program for axial SpA.
• To evaluate the clinical outcomes of this digital intervention in axial SpA patients.
• To inform clinical practice and future digital health program development for axial SpA.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, interventional cohort study involving 50 participants with axial SpA.
• Individualized exercise programs delivered via www.webbasedphysio.com, with a target of five sessions weekly for 12 months.
• Data collection at baseline, 6, and 12 months, including adherence, function, disease activity, quality of life, and patient interviews.

Main Results:

• The primary outcome is adherence to the exercise program over 4-week cycles and 12 months.
• Secondary outcomes include improvements in function (BASFI), disease activity (BASDAI), and quality of life (ASQoL, EQ5D).
• Exploration of adherence through participant interviews will provide qualitative insights.

Conclusions:

• This study will determine the adherence and clinical outcomes of a web-based physiotherapy program for axial SpA.
• Findings will guide clinical practice and the development of similar digital health interventions.
• Web-based physiotherapy offers a potential solution to exercise barriers in axial SpA.