Effect of an e-health app on adherence to physical activity in people with knee osteoarthritis

Context: Physical activity and rehabilitation comprise the main elements of the non-pharmacological management of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Compliance with home-based muscle-strengthening exercises is weak, thus diminishing the beneficial effects of the care process. Aim : We aimed to estimate the effect of an e-health app providing a self-exercise program, on adherence to physical activity practice in patients with KOA. Materials and methods: We conducted an observational, open labelled, single-center study using a mixed method approach. Results: Of the 32 people with KOA, 26 completed the study process (62.5% of whom were women).Most had unilateral femorotibial compartment involvement (Kellgren & Lawrence stage II or III) and led a sedentary lifestyle. The EARS score decreased between 3 weeks and 3 months (effect size -0.41), with 69% of patients considered non-responders. The KOOSf score also declined (effect size -0.62), with no improvement in pain on the NRS scale. Conclusion: This study showed the beneficial impact of using an e-health application on clinical criteria such as pain and joint function, but not on adherence to prescribed self-exercise. Trial registration: NCT04750304 Date of trial registration : 10/02/2021