Effects of a 12-Week Digital Care Program for Chronic Knee Pain on Pain, Mobility, and Surgery Risk: Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Digital health interventions
• Musculoskeletal health
• Osteoarthritis management

Background:

• Chronic knee pain, often due to osteoarthritis, affects many individuals.
• Inadequate care leads to reliance on opioids and surgery.
• Conservative treatments like exercise and education are effective but underutilized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a remotely delivered digital care program for chronic knee pain.
• To compare outcomes of a digital program versus standard care.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial with 162 participants was conducted.
• The treatment group received a 12-week digital program (sensor-guided exercise, education, CBT, weight loss, coaching).
• The control group received educational materials; both had access to usual care.

Main Results:

• The digital care program significantly reduced knee pain (KOOS Pain) and improved physical function (KOOS-PS).
• Secondary outcomes showed significant improvements in pain (VAS), stiffness (VAS), and reduced likelihood of surgery.
• Participants in the digital program demonstrated a greater understanding of their condition and treatment options.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive 12-week digital care program significantly enhances outcomes for chronic knee pain, including osteoarthritis.
• The program effectively improves pain, physical function, stiffness, and reduces surgery inclination.
• Digital interventions offer a viable and effective alternative to traditional management for knee pain.