Effects of a Computer Vision-Based Exercise Application for People With Knee Osteoarthritis: Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract

Background: Exercise is a primary recommended treatment for knee osteoarthritis (KOA), as it helps alleviate symptoms and improves joint functionality. Personalized exercise programs, tailored to individual patient needs, have demonstrated promising results in maintaining physical fitness and enhancing overall well-being. In recent years, digital health applications have emerged as innovative tools for supervising and facilitating rehabilitation programs. Leveraging computer vision (CV) technology, these applications offer the potential to provide precise feedback and support personalized exercise interventions for patients with KOA in a scalable and accessible manner.

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the impact of a CV-graded exercise intervention application over a 6-week period on clinical outcomes in patients with KOA . The outcomes were compared to those achieved through conventional exercise education by videos.

Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 60 participants aged 60-80 years, recruited through community administrators between July 2023 and September 2023. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the graded exercise application group (n=32) and the exercise education brochure group (n=28). The primary outcomes assessed were short-term changes in pain, physical function, and stiffness as measured by the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC). Secondary outcomes included assessments of participants' affective state, self-efficacy, quality of life, and user experience.

Results: The study recruited 60 participants, including 26 males and 34 females. Analysis revealed statistically significant improvements in physical function (P=.02) and self-efficacy (P=.04) in the graded exercise application group compared to the exercise education brochure group after the intervention. While improvements in pain and stiffness were observed in both groups, these changes were not statistically significant. In addition, participants in the graded exercise application group reported a positive user experience, highlighting the application's usability and engagement features as beneficial to their rehabilitation process.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that the CV-based graded exercise intervention application effectively improves physical function and self-efficacy among patients with KOA . This digital tool demonstrates the potential to enhance the quality and personalization of exercise rehabilitation compared to traditional methods. Future studies should explore the application's long-term efficacy and replicability in larger community-based populations, with a focus on sustained engagement and adherence to rehabilitation programs.