Muscusceletal Pain Vs Digital Exercise

🔍 A systematic review assessed the impact of digital physical health exercises on patients with musculoskeletal diseases, which affect an estimated 1.71 billion people worldwide and impose high biopsychosocial and economic burdens.

📚 The study, following PRISMA guidelines, included 30 randomized controlled trials and evaluated interventions such as app-based tools, internet-based exercises, and telerehabilitation. Results revealed strong evidence for positive impacts on conditions affecting the back, with moderate benefits observed in shoulder and hip disorders. Evidence for overall body musculoskeletal health, as well as for knee and hand conditions, was mixed.

📊 Furthermore, significant improvements were noted in patient-reported outcomes related to impairment and quality of life, although findings for pain and function varied. The review also highlighted conflicting evidence concerning the influence of digital interventions when considering different medical treatment types, whether operative or conservative.

💡 In summary, digital physical health exercises show promising potential in alleviating symptoms and enhancing quality of life in patients with musculoskeletal diseases, particularly for those affecting the back, shoulder, and hip. This emerging area of digital health warrants further research to refine intervention strategies and broaden the evidence base.

Full Text: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38261356/