Does a Web-Based Exercise Programming System Improve Home Exercise Adherence for People With Musculoskeletal Conditions? A Randomized Controlled Trial

Kim L. Bennell, Charlotte J. Marshall, Fiona Dobson, Jessica Kasza, Chris Lonsdale, Rana S. Hinman

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74 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate whether a web-based exercise programming system improves adherence to a home exercise program for people with musculoskeletal conditions. DESIGN: Eligible patients with a musculoskeletal condition presenting to a physical therapist in private practice were randomized to the following: (a) control (home exercise prescribed by therapist's usual methods) or (b) intervention (home exercise prescribed using a web-based exercise programming system). The primary outcome was self-rated exercise adherence measured at week 3 via 11-point Numeric Rating Scales. Secondary outcomes were satisfaction with exercise delivery and confidence in ability to undertake prescribed exercise. Process measures were also included. RESULTS: We enrolled 305 participants, with loss to follow-up of 14.5% (22/152) and 13.7% (21/153) in intervention and control groups, respectively. Compared with controls, the intervention group reported higher exercise adherence (mean difference Numeric Rating Scale units (95% confidence intervals): adherence overall -1.0 [-1.6 to -0.3] and regarding number of exercises in session -0.7 [-1.3 to -0.1], number of repetitions -0.8 [-1.4 to -0.2], and number of sessions -1.0 [-1.6 to -0.3]). The intervention group showed greater confidence to exercise than control, with no difference in satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: A web-based exercise programming system improved home exercise adherence and confidence in ability to undertake exercise, although the clinical relevance of the results needs to be established.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)850-858
Number of pages9
JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Volume98
Issue number10
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Oct 2019

Keywords

  • Exercise
  • Adherence
  • Physical Therapist
  • Musculoskeletal

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