Restoring Movement and Reducing Pain for Humana Members – The Impact of Joint Academy’s Digital Treatments Three Months In

June 15, 2022

Chronic joint pain is a growing concern across the U.S., with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions ranking among the largest drivers of healthcare costs. Currently, 54 million Americans live with chronic joint pain, a condition that also increases the risk of severe comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease—further escalating medical expenditures for payers.

Joint Academy: A Low-Cost, High-Impact Solution

Joint Academy partners with payers and providers nationwide to offer members a clinically proven, cost-effective treatment accessible via a smartphone app. This digital-first approach ensures that patients have continuous access to their personal licensed physical therapist and structured treatment programs—anytime, anywhere.

Improving Outcomes for Humana Members

In our partnership with Humana, one of the nation’s leading health insurers, we provide a low-cost, low-risk at-home treatment for chronic joint pain. Just a few months into this collaboration, the results are already significant:

55% improvement in mobility
47% reduction in pain levels
Significant decrease in prescription pain medication use

Patient Success Stories

Verna, 66 – Overcoming Shoulder Pain Through Digital Treatment

Verna, a Humana Key Medical member, suffered from severe shoulder pain caused by repetitive daily activities at work. Her pain was so intolerable that even painkillers provided no relief. Despite undergoing X-rays and in-person physical therapy, her condition remained unchanged.

After starting Joint Academy’s digital treatment, Verna saw immediate improvement. She now spends just ten minutes a day on personalized exercises prescribed by her physical therapist. Within weeks, her pain level dropped from 8/10 to 4/10:

“I’ve been part of a support group in the Joint Academy app, which keeps me motivated. Now, I can lift my left arm without assistance, raise my arms higher, and lift more than 10 lbs. I hope more patients realize how effective these simple, time-efficient exercises can be.” – Verna

Rik, 71 – Avoiding Surgery and Returning to Hiking

Rik, a 71-year-old Humana member from California, was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in his right knee. Wanting to explore a low-risk alternative before surgery, he began treatment through Joint Academy. Now, Rik reports that he no longer experiences any knee pain and can return to hiking, achieving his primary goal of avoiding joint replacement surgery.

“Physical therapy only works if the member participates in the treatment.” – Dr. Jeffrey McManus, Regional Medical Director at Humana

Why Adherence Matters

Studies confirm that first-line treatment—consisting of physical therapy and education—is highly effective in reducing pain for most chronic joint pain patients. However, adherence is key to achieving these benefits.

With Joint Academy, 70% of patients complete at least 80% of their treatment program under the guidance of a licensed physical therapist. Higher adherence leads to better outcomes, ultimately delaying or preventing costly joint replacement surgeries.

Looking Ahead

We are proud to partner with Humana and thrilled that many of their members are already experiencing reduced pain and restored mobility through Joint Academy’s digital treatments.