Effects of an artificial intelligence-based exercise program on pain intensity and disability in patients with neck
Griefahn Annika1, Hartmann Rica2, Avermann Florian3
1Universität zu Lübeck, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany; University of Applied Science, Faculty Business Management and Social Sciences, Albrechtstraße 30, 49076 Osnabrück, Germany; medicalmotion GmbH, Blütenstraße 15, 80799 München, Germany.
Objectives:
This study compares the effects of an artificial intelligence app-based exercise program with group exercise therapy on pain intensity and neck-related disability in patients with neck pain.
Participants:
84 patients with neck pain. 70 fulfilled the study requirements. 52 were in the intervention and 18 in the comparison group.
Intervention:
The intervention group utilized an AI-based exercise program accessible via digital devices. The AI provided 3-5 daily exercises tailored to individual feedback, pain intensity, and well-being. The exercise duration was up to 15 min per day. The comparison group attended up to two 45-min group exercise sessions weekly.
Methods:
Pain intensity and neck-related disability were assessed using an 11-point numerical rating scale and the Neck Disability Index via online questionnaires at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. The non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test was used to test for between group differences.
Results:
After 8 weeks, the intervention group showed a significantly lower pain intensity than the comparison group (U = 287, Z = -2.447, p = 0.042, r = 0.3). Compared to baseline, the intervention group showed a significant reduction in neck pain (Chi2 (2) = 15.775, p < 0.001, W = 0.15) and an improvement in neck-related disability (Chi2 (2) = 25.094, p < 0.001, W = 0.24). The comparison group showed no significant change over time.
Conclusion:
The app-based exercise program demonstrated promising results for the reduction of pain intensity and neck-related disability, offering a personalized and mobile alternative to group exercise therapy for patients with neck pain.
