Background
Patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) benefit from regular home-based exercise (HbE). In spite of recommendations, a relevant proportion of German axSpA patients does not adhere to recommended HbE practices. To enhance HbE care, we developed the novel digital therapeutic (DTx) “Axia” compliant with the European medical device regulation (MDR). Axia offers a modern app-based HbE solution with patient educative content and further integrated features. A first patient survey involved axSpA patients who assessed Axia's efficacy, attractiveness, and functionality through a questionnaire.
Methods
A mixed-method online questionnaire with 38 items was administered to 37 axSpA volunteers after using Axia. Numeric rating scales (NRS) and likelihood scales were primarily used.
Results
Axia received a median rating of 5 out of 5 stars. On NRS scales, Axia scored a median of 9 for intuitiveness and design, and a median of 8 for entertainment. HbE frequency significantly increased from a median of 1 day/week to 6 days/week (p<0.001). Existing HbE practitioners also increased their frequency (median of 4 days/week before, 6 days/week with Axia, p<0.05). 64.9% reported improved range of motion, 43.2% reported reduced pain, and 93.6% enhanced disease-specific knowledge. All users recommended Axia to other patients.
Conclusion
Axia represents a promising DTx for axSpA, warranting further investigation in large randomized controlled interventional trials to establish its efficacy conclusively.