Summary

Introduction and Objectives

Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions and is considered the leading cause of functional disability in older adults. Once diagnosed, it represents an irreversible degenerative process, and in advanced stages, joint replacement surgery becomes the only therapeutic option. Physical exercise, health education, and lifestyle changes are among the most recommended interventions to improve prognosis and delay or avoid surgery. However, the overload of healthcare systems limits the capacity to provide personalized, face-to-face treatments.

In this context, digital health, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, has proven to be a viable and effective alternative to deliver remote interventions. In a systematic review and meta-analysis we recently published, we showed that digital interventions improve clinical outcomes and reduce treatment costs in most musculoskeletal conditions. However, we identified very few evidence-based mobile apps, and none specifically targeting people with osteoarthritis. Therefore, the objectives of this project are:

1. To co-create a mobile app to provide comprehensive digital rehabilitation for people with knee osteoarthritis.
2. To evaluate the app’s effectiveness in improving clinical outcomes.
3. To determine whether the app is cost-effective in terms of economic investment and human resources, compared to standard care provided by the Andalusian Public Health System.

Methodology

First, a co-creation study will be conducted involving patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to guide the development of the intervention. At the same time, a technology company will be in charge of the app’s technical development.

Second, a randomized controlled trial will be carried out with 74 patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis who do not yet have joint replacement surgery scheduled. Of these, 37 will receive treatment via the app, while the other 37 will follow standard care offered by the Andalusian Public Health System. Feasibility outcomes (e.g., adoption, adherence, satisfaction, and app quality) and clinical variables (e.g., WOMAC and KOOS scores, as well as objective tests such as the 30-Second Chair Stand and Timed Up and Go) will be assessed.

Finally, a cost-utility analysis will be conducted alongside the clinical trial, considering the costs associated with both interventions and their impact on patients’ quality of life over the 6-month follow-up. Patient-related costs, such as travel time and expenses, will also be taken into account.

Status

Funding

Selected Publications

The study in the media

Not yet available.