Transforming Lives: The Effects of a Digital Lifestyle Intervention on Patients with Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Conditions – A Pilot Exploration

Objectives:

To assess the short and long term impacts of a digital, interactive, multifaceted lifestyle modification program (Leef! Met Reuma) on health risks and all ICHOM-suggested patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in individuals with Inflammatory Arthritis (IA), Osteoarthritis (OA), or Fibromyalgia (FM).

Methods:

Individuals diagnosed with IA, OA, or FM were invited to enroll in the lifestyle modification program. This initiative includes an intensive 3-month phase, succeeded by a 21-month follow-up duration, concentrating on four foundational pillars: nutrition, exercise, relaxation, and sleep. Data regarding health risks and PROMs are gathered every 3 months during the initial 6 months and biannually for the subsequent 18 months. Health risks encompass self-reported weight, waist circumference, and BMI. The following PROMs were considered: pain intensity, morning stiffness severity, fatigue levels, Health Assessment Questionnaire, life quality, perceived stress, sleep disruptions, and overall life impact. Descriptive statistics evaluated the variations in health risks and PROMs throughout the intensive phase and follow-up period.

Results:

Among the 264 participants examined, 88, 105, and 71 were identified with IA, OA, and FM, respectively. Health risks displayed significant enhancement in all three diagnostic categories during the intensive phase of the program. The average reduction in BMI was -1.36 (0.26), -1.22 (0.23), and -1.48 (0.33), stabilizing during the follow-up period. All PROMs exhibited a comparable tendency.

Conclusion:

A digital, interactive lifestyle modification program yields a favorable long-term impact, even post 2 years of follow-up, on health risks and all PRO domains in individuals with inflammatory arthritis, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia.