The Results Are Clear: Digital Treatment is Just as Effective as Face-to-Face Treatment

Researchers from Lund University have confirmed in a new study that both digital and face-to-face treatments for hip and knee pain provide equally significant clinical improvements.

Key Findings from Recent Research

A 2021 randomized controlled trial conducted at the University of Nottingham, England, demonstrated that patients with knee osteoarthritis who received digital treatment reduced their pain and improved physical function more than those who received face-to-face care.

The latest study aimed to determine whether there is a clinically significant difference between three months of digital osteoarthritis treatment via Joint Academy and traditional face-to-face treatment following BOA (Better Care of Patients with Arthritis) guidelines in Sweden.

The results were clear: digital osteoarthritis treatment is just as effective as face-to-face care. Moreover, researchers recommend that patients be given the choice between digital and in-person treatment. Improving accessibility, particularly for those who face barriers to attending in-person therapy, benefits both patients and the healthcare system, according to Leif Dahlberg, Medical Director at Joint Academy and Professor Emeritus at Lund University.

The Importance of First-Line Treatment

According to the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare’s guidelines, all osteoarthritis patients should be offered first-line treatment, which includes:

• Individualized exercises
• Patient education
• Weight management, when needed

Joint replacement surgery should only be considered if first-line treatment and additional interventions fail to provide adequate symptom relief. Research shows that only 10% of osteoarthritis patients will ever require surgery. However, studies indicate that only 20% of patients seeking care for osteoarthritis receive first-line treatment, and half of those who undergo surgery were never offered first-line treatment.

The Impact of First-Line Treatment on Surgery Decisions

Another study found that more than half of patients awaiting joint replacement surgery changed their mind about surgery after undergoing first-line treatment. This underscores the potential of early intervention to prevent unnecessary procedures and optimize healthcare resources.

Reducing Healthcare Burdens Through Digital Accessibility

Hospital waiting times, particularly post-pandemic, remain a significant challenge. Increasing access to first-line osteoarthritis treatment can help reduce wait times and ensure that the right patients receive the right care at the right time, says Leif Dahlberg.

How Joint Academy Provides Evidence-Based Osteoarthritis Treatment

Joint Academy offers digital, evidence-based treatments for osteoarthritis and lower back pain, connecting licensed physical therapists with patients via a mobile application. Through the app, patients receive:

• Daily exercises to strengthen muscles, improve mobility, and reduce pain
• Educational lessons on symptom relief strategies
• Weight management support, if necessary
• Ongoing guidance from a personal physical therapist

Joint Academy currently treats tens of thousands of patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis weekly. Studies show that:

• 85% of patients reduce their joint pain after undergoing treatment
• 50% of osteoarthritis patients reconsider their need for surgery after completing first-line treatment

By making first-line osteoarthritis treatment more accessible, Joint Academy helps patients manage their condition effectively while alleviating strain on the healthcare system.