Changes in exercise adherence during use of an e-health application in individuals 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 explore changes in exercise adherence during the use of the ARTH-e application in individuals with KOA. Materials and methods We conducted a prospective observational, open labelled, single-center study. Results Of the 32 people with KOA, 26 completed the study (62.5% women). Most had unilateral femorotibial compartment involvement (Kellgren & Lawrence stage II or III) and led a sedentary lifestyle. The Exercice Adherence Rating Scale score decreased between 3 weeks and 3 months (effect size −0.41), with 69% of patients considered non-responders. The Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score score decreased (effect size −0.62), while no significant changes were observed in pain measured by Numeric Rating Scale. Conclusion Over the three-month follow-up, exercise adherence decreased, no significant changes were observed in pain, and functional scores changed over time. Given the observational design and absence of a control group, no conclusions can be drawn regarding the effectiveness of the application.