A Blended Physiotherapy Intervention for Persons With Hemophilic Arthropathy: Development Study

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Digital Health
• Rare Diseases

Background:

• Hemophilia causes joint bleeds and painful hemophilic arthropathy (HA).
• Physical functioning in HA patients is often improved through exercise programs.
• Limited access to experienced physiotherapists necessitates innovative care models for HA patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel blended physiotherapy intervention for individuals with hemophilic arthropathy (HA).

Main Methods:

• The e-Exercise HA intervention was co-created with physiotherapists, HA patients, software developers, and researchers.
• Development followed the Center for eHealth Research roadmap, incorporating literature reviews and focus groups.
• Content creation involved experienced individuals in blended physiotherapy interventions.

Main Results:

• A 12-week blended intervention, e-Exercise HA, was developed, integrating in-person physiotherapy with a web-based application.
• The program includes information modules for patients and physiotherapists, a graded activity plan, and personalized video exercises.
• Features include text, videos, reflective questions, reminders, and patient feedback mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• A blended physiotherapy intervention, e-Exercise HA, was successfully developed for individuals with hemophilic arthropathy (HA).
• The intervention comprises informational modules, a graded activity program, and personalized, video-supported exercises to enhance self-management and physical function.